Latest news with #MarkV
CTV News
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
TransLink parodies Wicked musical in chirpy introduction to new SkyTrain model
More engaging than a social media post and far more memorable than a tiresome written release, TransLink has opted for an all-singing, all-dancing spectacle to announce the latest addition to its SkyTrain fleet. Those at the transit agency, ever the wallflowers, have launched the new Mark V model with a music video parody based on the Broadway-musical-turned-movie Wicked. A staff member, decked out in a long blonde wig and various Glinda-worthy ensembles, prances through the stations and in and out of SkyTrain cars while singing a rejigged version of the catchy number 'What Is This Feeling?' The song leads with the question 'Why is that SkyTrain so shiny and new?' before journeying into lyrics that merrily applaud the car's new features, including the wider aisles, ample bike space and new LCD screens. TransLink Spokesperson Thor Diakow says the video was produced completely in-house by chirpy staff from TransLink and the B.C. Rapid Transit Company, who figured the earworm tune of the Broadway hit was the only appropriate way to unveil a new transport system. 'We wanted to connect it with some current pop culture that is relevant for all ages, and Wicked felt like the perfect choice,' he says. Rehearsals for the video took about 90 minutes, and the recording of the video lasted just over two hours. Diakow says there were numerous spectators who attended the Waterfront Station customer appreciation event when the Mark V launched, who were equally as enthralled to watch the video come together in real time. 'The production team got some enthusiastic applause after the dance sequences,' he says. Since being posted to TransLink's Youtube page on Friday, the response to the video has been nothing but 'overwhelmingly positive,' Diakow adds. 'We've received many comments from people outside Vancouver and even outside of Canada, with some asking where this transit system is located,' he says. The video currently has over 150,000 views on TransLink's Instagram account. The first Mark V model officially entered service on the Expo Line July 10 as one of 47 new trains set to hit the tracks.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Alstom's SkyTrain Mark V vehicles commence operations in Vancouver
Alstom, in partnership with Vancouver's TransLink in Canada, has announced the commercial launch of the first new generation of SkyTrain vehicles, known as the Mark V. This marks a significant step in the modernisation of Vancouver's rapid transit system, with plans to have several five-car trains operating on the Expo and Millennium Line network by the end of 2025. The driverless light trains represent the SkyTrain network's longest and highest capacity trains to date. With TransLink's additional order for six five-car Mark V trains for the network in 2024, the total number of Mark V cars ordered to date stands at 235 (47 trains). Each Mark V train can transport 672 passengers, which is a 25% increase in capacity compared to the current four-car Mark III models. TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn said: '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 am excited to see them deliver a better experience for every customer.' The new trains offer passengers enhanced comfort with improved interior designs, interconnected wagons, new seating arrangements, advanced heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, and large digital displays for station information. The Mark V trains are designed, manufactured, and tested at Alstom's facilities in Kingston, Ontario, and La Pocatière and Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville in Québec. The project employed 282 people at its peak, not including the additional jobs and economic benefits generated through Alstom's local supply chain. In a separate development, Alstom has secured a contract worth $2.3bn to supply 316 commuter rail cars to the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad, which are part of the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority in the US. The contract also includes an option for up to 242 additional cars, potentially raising the contract value by $1.5bn. "Alstom's SkyTrain Mark V vehicles commence operations in Vancouver" was originally created and published by Railway Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
CTV News
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- CTV News
New Mark V SkyTrain cars hit the tracks
A Mark V SkyTrain is seen in this image handed out by TransLink. The first of a new generation of SkyTrain cars was unveiled Thursday, in what TransLink says is the start of a new era for Vancouver. The first Mark V SkyTrain officially begins running on the Expo Line Friday, and another 46 trains – a total of 235 cars – will be rolled out over the next four years. The public got a chance to tour the new cars at an event attended by federal, provincial and municipal dignitaries. 'From the first SkyTrain in 1985 to this moment right now, I want to welcome you to the future of SkyTrain,' said TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn, to a round of cheers and applause. The new trains can fit 25 per cent more passengers inside, or about 140 people, compared to the previous generation Mark IIIs, according to TransLink. They have five cars each instead of four and wider aisles with more standing room. The new cars feature leaning pads and sideways-facing seats in addition to the traditional front-and-back facing chairs. Other perks include new digital displays and better heating and cooling systems. Mark V SkyTrain The interior of a Mark V SkyTrain is seen in this image handed out by TransLink. The windscreens on each car display work from local Indigenous artists, including Rain Pierre of the Katzie First Nation, Atheana Picha and Brandon Gabriel of the Kwantlen First Nation, Darryl Blyth of the Musqueam Nation, and Rose Williams of the Squamish Nation. Officials touted the all-Canadian creation of the trains, built in Quebec and tested in Kingston before travelling across the Trans-Canada Highway to Vancouver. The Mark V will replace the original 80s-era Mark I cars. The Mark III, which began rolling out in 2015, will continue to operate.
