The rollout of 54 brand-new DLR trains is officially underway, with the first train now in service, marking the start of a bold new era for one of the capital’s most vital transport networks.
This is a major milestone in the DLR’s transformation, replacing the oldest trains in the fleet – some of which have been in service for more than three decades – with modern, high-capacity trains designed to meet the needs of a growing city.
Each of the new state-of-the-art DLR trains feature the latest technology and are designed to significantly improve reliability, capacity and comfort for customers.
Key features include:
Spacious walk-through carriages with 10 per cent more capacity compared to the current trains
Air-conditioning for improved comfort
Live travel information and mobile device charging points
Three multi-use areas for pushchairs, bicycles, and luggage
Three dedicated wheelchair spaces to improve accessibility
The trains will continue to roll out over the coming months. Once all 54 new trains are operational, overall capacity on the DLR will increase by more than 50 per cent. The full replacement of the older fleet is expected by the end of 2026, with additional new trains introduced as quickly as possible to further boost capacity.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is an exciting day in east and south London with the introduction of these brand-new trains marking a major milestone in the transformation of the DLR to improve travel for millions of Londoners.
“These new trains are amazing. Built with the latest cutting-edge design and technology, the trains will have 10 per cent bigger capacity, improved onboard customer information, mobile device charging points, air conditioning and better accessibility features for all passengers.
“The new DLR trains will significantly improve reliability and support growth in new homes and jobs, particularly for Londoners in areas like Stratford, Woolwich Arsenal and the Isle of Dogs. I’m committed to modernising infrastructure on London’s transport network, which is vital for faster, greener and safer journeys that are accessible for all.”
Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “These state-of-the-art trains will transform customers’ journeys across the DLR network. Boosting capacity and improving reliability, these new trains will help the DLR keep pace with growing demand in this part of the capital. Customers will benefit from more comfortable, frequent, and accessible services.”
