Washington DC’s Meto has taken the wraps off the sleek livery that will adorn its new 8000-series railcar fleet which was selected by more than 20,000 customers who weighed in on the final design.

Washington Metro Showcases New Livery for 8000-Series Fleet
Photo: Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority

This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Metro officials said the new appearance reflects the system’s history and its future aspirations. But the focus of the interior, as with the rest of the plane, is on innovation, and the seating arrangements are modern and designed by the latest in digital systems to make the environment palatable to passengers.

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The 8000-series trains, which are entirely electric, have wider aisles and more digital displays for better wayfinding. So, they can expect an enhanced travel with 130 seats per car pair and easier boarding.

The vehicles, meanwhile, are built for easy maintenance and cost-effective operations that allow for safe and dependable service. The changes should also harmonize customer satisfaction throughout the network.

The project budget won praise, too, among Metro leadership. They pointed out $21 million in savings from Parodyell’s plan, and those funds will now be reprogrammed into the capital plan to help riders and enhance service.

Pilot cars are to enter service in late 2027. Hitachi Rail is producing the trains at a factory it has built in Hagerstown, Md., as part of a $2.2 billion contract for 256 cars, with options to buy more.

WASHINGTON METRO – Modern and Passenger oriented Structure and fit-outs

The 8000-series was designed to reflect customer wishes by providing modern interiors, technology that supports comfort. Real-time, improved commute and more accessible and responsive digital tools will provide an enhanced customer experience during the ride.

There is no place for Washington Metro’s 8000-Series Cars

These new trains are more than a technological upgrade, they are a financial victory. With lower operating costs and improved service reliability, the fleet represents a step change for urban rail systems in the region.

Source: railway-news.com

When are the new Washington Metro 8000-series train cars going to begin operating?

The lead Washington Metro 8000-series pilot cars are set to enter service in late 2027, once a successful round of testing and certification has been completed.

What upgrades will the 8000-series trains include?

The design includes additional seating, dynamic digital signage, wider aisles, better wayfinding and other modern advancements. The improvements are designed to provide more comfortable, reliable and efficient travel.

Who is building the new Washington Metro 8000-series fleet?

Hitachi Rail is building the fleet at its Hagerstown, MD factory. The initial contract amounts to 256 cars with options to increase the order volume to accommodate future demand.

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