The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has introduced the first new R211S subway cars into service on the Staten Island Railway.
These new cars are part of a larger order of 535, which includes 440 R211A standard cars, 75 R211S Staten Island Railway cars, and 20 cars with an open gangway feature.
In October 2022, the MTA Board also approved the purchase of an additional 640 R211 subway cars, increasing the total number of new vehicles expected within the next two years to 1,080.
To celebrate this occasion, attendees of the launch event rode the inaugural service from St. George Terminal
© MTA
The R211S cars feature 58-inch-wide door openings, which are eight inches wider than those on existing trains. This change is expected to speed up boarding and reduce the amount of time trains spend at stations.
The vehicles are also engineered to be six times more reliable than the current fleet, with an ability to travel an average of 240,000 miles between major repairs or replacements.
“These beautiful new train cars are a major investment in transit on Staten Island. Between the train and the 56 bus routes, we take great pride in the service the team delivers to help make Staten Island a great place to live.”
The R211S cars are also equipped with security cameras throughout, digital route screens in every car, and brighter lighting and signage. These enhancements are designed to improve the overall commuting experience, making journeys safer and more convenient for passengers.
The current fleet, consisting of R44 cars, has been in service since 1973.
