Testing of CTA’s Prototype Rail Cars

The 5000-series prototype rail cars continue to undergo in-service testing. The 10 prototypes are currently running along the Blue Line.

The rail cars offer a variety of new features and technologies to benefit CTA customers. Each car has seven networked security cameras, an event recorder system similar to a black box on an airplane and sensitive door sensors that will detect obstructions better than CTA's current rail fleet.

The new aisle-facing seating configuration is designed to accommodate more customers per car and allow more room for customers carrying backpacks, packages, luggage, strollers and bikes. The configuration provides 38 seats and space for two wheelchair positions and added support poles and hand straps in the center of the car for standing customers.

Testing new rail cars is a long process that allows the CTA to evaluate performance against a number of variables. The prototype rail cars will continue to undergo in-service testing under real-world conditions on all eight CTA rail lines throughout the year to ensure that all other components are operating properly and to make adjustments if needed.

The rail cars must successfully complete testing before CTA will authorize the delivery of the remaining 396 rail cars.