The trains also provide passengers with real-time travel updates and walk-through carriages for staff and inspectors
New DLR trains kitted out with USB charging points and air-con have rolled into service today (Wednesday, October 1). The trains also provide real-time travel updates, walk-through carriages and 10 per cent more room for passengers compared to the older models.
The first of the 54 brand-new trains went in service today, in a project that Transport for London (TfL) hopes will transform travel in South and East London. They will replace the oldest trains in the fleet – some of which have been in service for more than three decades – with more modern, higher-capacity trains.
The trains will continue to roll out over the coming months, increasing overall capacity on the DLR 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.”
TfL introduced a temporary timetable in June 2025 to retire aging trains that had reached the end of their operational life. As more new trains enter service, the full timetable will be restored, bringing more frequent services across the network.
The new trains are just one part of a wider project to improve the DLR network. TfL is working to progress plans for a proposed extension of the DLR from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead, which it hopes would bring investment to the area.
The wider programme has been backed by significant government investment, £260 million of which has been provided through the Housing Infrastructure Fund. A further £500 million has been financed through a loan from the National Wealth Fund, while London City Airport also contributed more than £5 million towards the cost of the new trains.
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