A new era for SkyTrain: The Mark V rolls into serv

Next-generation SkyTrain enters service on the Expo Line

July 10, 2025

VANCOUVER, BC A new era for SkyTrain begins today, as the new Mark V model officially enters service on the Expo Line. This will be the first of 47 new trains that will bring more space, comfort, and modern design to customers across Metro Vancouver. Originally purchased in December 2020, the addition of the Mark V fleet represents TransLink’s largest-ever order of SkyTrain cars.

The Mark V proudly represents an all-Canadian collaboration. The new models are manufactured by Alstom in La Pocatire, Quebec, and then tested in Kingston, Ontario. The train cars are then delivered to Metro Vancouver on flatbed trucks across the Trans-Canada Highway, spanning a 4,600-kilometre cross-country trek.

Customers will immediately recognize this next-generation SkyTrain model due to its iconic blue livery and unique five-car length, adding 25 per cent more capacity for customers than current trains.

A total of 235 Mark V cars (47 trains), will be delivered by 2029 to serve both the Expo and Millennium Lines. The Mark V is built to support the incoming Broadway Subway and Surrey-Langley SkyTrain projects.

Modern designs of the new Mark V:

• Wider aisles with more standing room, handrails, and new leaning pads
• Spacious multi-use areas for bikes, luggage, strollers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices
• Enhanced safety and accessibility with visual door closure and emergency braking indicators
• A mix of forward-facing and side seating for greater choice and flexibility

Unique to the Mark V is striking Indigenous artwork decorating the interior of the new cars on each of the windscreens. The artwork was created by acclaimed Indigenous artists Rain Pierre of qicy (Katzie First Nation), Atheana Picha of qw:nn (Kwantlen First Nation), Brandon Gabriel of qw:nn (Kwantlen First Nation), Darryl Blyth of xmkym (Musqueam), and Rose Williams of Swxw7mesh xwumixw (Squamish Nation).

Delivery of the Mark V arrives at a crucial time, as over the next five years, TransLink is expecting a 20 per cent increase in ridership on the Expo Line, and a 50 per cent bump on the Millennium Line during peak hours. The Mark V will help to address that growing ridership demand in the region.

This project was approved by the Mayors’ Council as part of its 10-Year Vision, and is funded in part through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), in partnership with the Government of Canada, the Province of British Columbia, and TransLink.

Quotes:

Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, Government of Canada
“Reliable, modern public transit is key to building connected communities. The new Mark V SkyTrain cars offer Metro Vancouver commuters a more comfortable ride, provide a cleaner alternative to driving, and make it easier for more people to choose sustainable transportation. Our region is growing, and these trains will shape the future of how we move and explore our community.”

Brad West, Mayors’ Council Chair and Mayor of Port Coquitlam
“As our region grows, transit needs to keep pace. The launch of the Mark V brings us closer to that goal, especially with construction of the Broadway Subway Project and Surrey-Langley SkyTrain officially underway. These new trains will make life better for transit users and demonstrate the commitment of the Mayors’ Council to keep our region moving.”

Kevin Quinn, CEO, TransLink
"The SkyTrain is more than just transportation it’s part of the identity of Metro Vancouver. The Mark V trains represent a bold new chapter, with more space, improved accessibility, and cutting-edge features that will enhance every ride. These trains are designed to meet the needs of a growing region and I’m excited to see them deliver a better experience for every customer."

Michael Keroull, Americas Region President, Alstom
“The entry into service of the Mark V fleet marks a new chapter in sustainable urban mobility. Alstom is proud to deliver made-in-Canada cutting-edge technology that enhances reliability, optimizes performance, supports TransLink’s long-term vision for a smarter, greener transit network and makes transit better and easier for the people of Vancouver.”

Royce Chwin, President & CEO, Destination Vancouver
“More than 11 million visitors come to Vancouver each year, and many rely on TransLink to move seamlessly between our neighbourhoods, attractions, and events. The arrival of the Mark V strengthens one of the essential foundations of our visitor economy—modern, reliable, and accessible transit. This is a smart investment in a $9.6 billion and growing sector, and TransLink is a critical partner in ensuring Vancouver remains a connected, welcoming, and world-class destination.”

More information:
SkyTrain Expansion Program

Media downloads:
Mark V archived photos

Media contact:
TransLink Media Relations
E: media@translink.ca