VIDEO: Metro Unveils New 7000-series Railcar Model

Metro unveiled a model of its newest railcar Thursday marking a major milestone for the company.

The 7000-series railcar is the largest investment the company has made in the system's history.

“For all that Metro does to keep government running, get people to work and get cars off the road, this investment in Metro is about safety. These new 7000 series cars are the next generation of safer cars to ride the rails of Washington’s Metro,” Senator Barbara Mikulski (D-Maryland) said.

When production of the new line begins this winter in Lincoln, NE it will have created about 1,000 jobs nationwide.

“This is an important achievement on our path to improving safety, reliability and customer service,” Metro Board Chair Catherine Hudgins said. “These new railcars represent the next generation of a Metro that will continue to expand and grow with the region in the decades ahead.”

What to expect from the new railcar?

• Stainless steel car body for increased durability.
• Closed circuit television cameras for added safety and security.
• LCD map displays to allow customers to easily track their location
• LED screens that provide current and upcoming station information.
• Improved seats that provide more knee room and better lumbar support.
• Wider aisles to facilitate movement within the car.
• Additional space near the doors for standees and wheelchairs.
• Resilient nonslip flooring, rather than carpet.
• Digital public address systems for improved announcement clarity.
• More reliable door systems using proven technology.