TfL Confirms Timeline for New DLR Fleet Return After Braking Incident
Transport for London (TfL) has officially announced that the new fleet of 54 Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains will return to passenger service by late summer. This announcement follows a concerning incident in November where one of the new trains failed to stop correctly at Canning Town station during rainy conditions, prompting their temporary withdrawal.
Investigation and Software Upgrades
The braking issue occurred on November 12, 2023, when only three of the new trains had been introduced to the network. In response, TfL engineers, in collaboration with manufacturer CAF and franchise operator KeolisAmey Docklands, conducted thorough investigations and implemented braking software upgrades specifically designed to enhance performance in wet weather conditions.
Stuart Harvey, TfL’s chief capital officer, stated: "We know customers are looking forward to travelling on these new trains, and we will provide a further update in the spring, with the trains being reintroduced by summer. Our engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure they return safely and reliably."
Phased Reintroduction and Testing
The return of the fleet will be phased, beginning with rigorous testing on dedicated test tracks before gradual reintroduction to the operational DLR network. This cautious approach aims to prevent any recurrence of the braking fault. Some temporary network closures are scheduled in the coming months to facilitate this testing process.
Once fully operational, the new DLR trains are expected to deliver significant improvements:
- A 50 percent increase in overall network capacity
- Air-conditioning systems for enhanced passenger comfort
- Improved accessibility features for all users
- Real-time travel information displays
Background and Future Impact
The state-of-the-art DLR fleet was initially rolled out in October 2023, representing a major upgrade to London's public transport infrastructure. The temporary withdrawal highlighted the importance of safety protocols in new vehicle deployments. TfL emphasizes that the software upgrades and additional testing will ensure the trains meet all safety standards before returning to regular service.
Passengers can anticipate the modernized travel experience these new trains offer, with TfL committed to providing further updates as the reintroduction progresses toward the late summer target.
