NYC Orders 2,400 Subway Cars to Modernize Fleet
MTA announces 2,400 new subway cars for lines 1, 3, and 6 with open gangway design
MTA Orders 2,400 New Subway Cars for NYC Lines
New York City subway riders on lines 1, 3, and 6 will see entirely new train fleets in coming years as the MTA seeks manufacturers for nearly 2,400 new subway cars. The agency announced the largest subway car purchase in its history, with proposals from manufacturers due in September and a contract expected by early 2028. The order could expand to include lines 2, 4, and 5, making it larger than Boston and Chicago's combined transit fleets.
Historic Capital Plan Funds Fleet Replacement
The subway car purchase is funded by the MTA's 2025-29 Capital Plan, which received $68 billion from Governor Kathy Hochul and the State Legislature. MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said the investment represents visible proof of delivering a modern transit system that New Yorkers deserve. The capital plan marks the largest funding commitment in the agency's history, officials said. Transit agencies typically replace subway cars after 30-40 years of service, and the affected lines currently operate some of the system's older rolling stock.
Open Gangway Design and Safety Cameras Planned
The new R262 model cars will feature open gangway designs that allow riders to move between cars, similar to systems in Paris and Toronto. Onboard cameras will be installed throughout the trains to improve rider safety and security, according to the MTA. The agency said the new cars are expected to be more reliable and efficient than current models, reducing delays and maintenance needs. Officials said the open gangway design increases capacity by eliminating space lost to end doors and vestibules between cars.
Contract Award Expected by Early 2028
Manufacturers have until September to submit proposals for the subway car contract, with the MTA planning to award the contract by early 2028. The agency didn't specify when the first new trains would enter service or how long full fleet replacement would take. Officials said the procurement timeline allows for thorough evaluation of manufacturer proposals and prototyping before production begins.
Riders to See Gradual Fleet Modernization
Subway riders on the affected lines can expect to see new trains gradually replace older cars once production begins, though officials haven't provided a specific timeline for when the first R262 cars will enter passenger service. The fleet replacement will modernize some of the system's busiest routes, with lines 1, 2, and 3 serving Manhattan's West Side and lines 4, 5, and 6 serving the East Side. Moovit provides real-time updates for all MTA subway lines, helping riders track train arrivals and plan trips across the system.
