The first of Calgary’s 63 new CTrain cars has arrived and Calgary Transit officials were chomping at the bit to show off their latest addition on Friday.
“We’re really excited about the Mask and what it means for improving our customers’ experience," said Calgary Transit director Doug Morgan.
The Mask cars, the S200 model that was designed by Siemens Canada, have increased accessibility, comfortable seating, LED lighting, heated floors, and air conditioning.
“This is great news for Calgary,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “These new trains will make using public transit an even better choice for our citizens.
Each car is capable of transporting up to 200 passengers and will be utilized in four-car CTrain service. The cost of each car is approximately $3.2 million.
All doors of the new cars are wheelchair accessible. Entrances will have sloped flooring instead of the conventional ramps. Door access will not be obstructed by pillars.
The design of the Mask is expected to improve security on the trains while ensuring passengers remain informed of transit updates. Each car will include high resolution surveillance cameras, digital monitors and interior speakers. The number of speakers in the new cars is double the speaker allotment in current trains.
The Mask trains, which will help replace Calgary Transit's U2 models that began operating in the early 1980's, are expected to last for up to 35 years.
