WASHINGTON — Metro is expanding its use of next-generation rail cars. Its second 7000-series train will begin servicing the Red Line on Monday, June 8.
The latest addition joins Metro’s first 7000-series train, which has been operating on the Blue Line since April 14.
The new cars have event recorders and digital video surveillance, as well as safety features that make the cars more durable and stable in the event of a collision. Riders especially like the easier-to-understand digital system used for making announcements.
Digital screens alert riders to amenities, such as bike- and car-share services, available the next stop, and wider aisles and improved seats make the cars more comfortable for passengers.
Metro has 528 of the new rail cars on order and plans for more than half of its fleet to be comprised of 7000-series cars by 2018. Metro says it expects addition 7000-series trains to begin service about every six weeks. The lines and routes are yet to be announced.
Vincent snaps a pic of #WMATAs new 7K Series train on the Red Line #WTOP pic.twitter.com/EQD1kSoeOH
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) June 8, 2015
The 7K Series train has wider aisles for people, wheelchairs and Joe’s bike #WTOP #WMATA pic.twitter.com/EChytVNfzA
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) June 8, 2015
With #WMATA Sherri Ly demonstrates side grab bar that a passenger says he esp likes “b/c I’m short!” #WTOP pic.twitter.com/iFsgMzcjw4
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) June 8, 2015
7K Series train grab bars are metal, high/low, and positioned on both SIDES of the car #WTOP #WMATA pic.twitter.com/UG8NZs7fnW
— Kristi King (@kingWTOP) June 8, 2015
