The first of 54 brand-new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains has officially entered service, marking the start of a major transformation for one of London’s most vital transport networks. The rollout represents a new chapter for the DLR, replacing its oldest trains — some more than 30 years old — with a modern, high-capacity fleet designed for a growing city.
Manufactured by CAF under a EUR 400 million contract signed in 2019 and later expanded to include 11 additional units, the new trains feature cutting-edge design and technology to improve reliability, comfort and capacity.
Each train offers 10 per cent more capacity than the existing fleet, with walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, live travel information displays, mobile charging points, and multi-use spaces for pushchairs, bicycles and luggage. Improved accessibility is also central to the design, with three dedicated wheelchair spaces per train.
Once all 54 new trains are in operation, overall capacity across the DLR will rise by more than 50 per cent. The full replacement of the existing fleet is expected by the end of 2026, with additional units being introduced as quickly as possible to support rising demand.
Supporting London’s growth
London Mayor Sadiq Khan described the milestone as “an exciting day for east and south London”.
“These new trains are amazing. Built with the latest design and technology, they offer 10 per cent more capacity, improved information systems, air conditioning, and better accessibility.
The new DLR fleet will improve reliability and support new homes and jobs in areas such as Stratford, Woolwich Arsenal and the Isle of Dogs.”
Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said the new fleet would “transform journeys across the DLR network” by improving comfort, accessibility and frequency.
“These state-of-the-art trains will help the DLR keep pace with growing demand in this part of the capital,” he said.
Richard Graham, Managing Director of KeolisAmey Docklands, added that the new trains will “provide the latest tools and technology to keep the DLR running safely and smoothly every day”.
Backed by major investment
The project is supported by over GBP 760 million in combined funding, including £260 million from the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund and £500 million through a loan from the National Wealth Fund, established by HM Treasury to drive major UK growth initiatives.
Lorna Pimlott, Managing Director of the National Wealth Fund, said:
“These new trains will improve capacity and passenger experience, while unlocking housing and economic opportunities in some of London’s most underserved communities.”
London City Airport, which contributed over £5 million towards the upgrade, said the investment would help promote sustainable transport and improve the travel experience for passengers.
Building for the future
The DLR serves six Opportunity Areas across east and south-east London, which together could deliver tens of thousands of new homes and jobs. Around 45,000 homes are already under construction or have planning permission within walking distance of DLR stations.
The new trains are part of Transport for London’s wider plan to prepare the network for future expansion, including a proposed extension from Gallions Reach to Thamesmead — a project seen as key to unlocking housing and economic growth in one of London’s most underserved areas.
“This investment is about unlocking the potential of east London — helping its communities thrive as new homes, jobs and opportunities are created,” said Richard Graham of KeolisAmey Docklands.
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