The Washington Metro will soon begin replacing aging subway cars that have been operating since the 1980s. The WMATA selected Hitachi Rail Washington LLC as the manufacturer for new 8000 series railcars. Approximately 256 subway cars will join the fleet with an estimated order valuation of $2.2 Billion. The trains will be “buy American compliant” thanks to a dedicated manufacturing facility in Hagerstown, MD. In May 2024 the WMATA offered the public a chance to tour the new subway cars as well as their first fully electric bus. In case you missed the tour, we will showcase some of the features of the new subway cars.
The Fleet Of The Future
Metro is dubbing the new trains and busses “the fleet of the future.” The original design concept was developed in 2022 has been refined over the years following feedback given at public tours. The new 8000 series subway cars will have an updated seating configuration with more seats and spaces to stand, especially when compared to the older 3000 series trains. There will be dedicated space for bicycles, strollers, and luggage as well as a dedicated wheelchair area in each car. For the first time on the Washington Metro, the subway cars will be connected through open gangways on either end, allowing for increased capacity and safe movement through the entire train set. Pending no delays with production and testing the 8000-series trains will enter into passenger service around 2027.
