DLR London: Advanced Tech Boosts Rail Capacity & Reliability

London’s DLR is launching a new **train fleet** with advanced technology. This major upgrade enhances safety and capacity, benefiting millions of passengers annually across the **railway** network.

DLR London: Advanced Tech Boosts Rail Capacity & Reliability
October 16, 2025 7:54 am
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Introduction

The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) in London is introducing a new train fleet of 54 units, utilizing advanced communication technology to enhance safety, reliability, and service availability across its network of 45 stations, which serves over 100 million passengers annually. The DLR network has been supported with digital CBTC signalling for more than three decades.

Main Content

Advanced Communication Technology

The new DRL train fleet is equipped with advanced communication technology, which is fundamental to the safety, reliability, and availability of the new fleet. This technology supports the DLR’s operations and is crucial for the city’s growth.

Project History and Expansion

The DLR network has been supported with digital CBTC signalling for over three decades, with successive extensions and upgrades. These have included the Lewisham expansion in 1999, the London City Airport expansion in 2005, and the Woolwich Arsenal expansion in 2009. These projects have ensured reliable services for passengers.

Fleet Expansion and Capacity Increase

Transport for London awarded a EUR 400 million contract in 2019 for 43 trains. In 2023, the DfT ordered an additional 11 trains. The entire DRL train fleet is scheduled to be introduced from the end of 2026, which will increase the network’s overall capacity by more than 60 percent. Each train has 10 percent more capacity, with improved facilities for passengers with mobility impairments, including three multi-use areas and three dedicated wheelchair spaces. These multi-use areas also accommodate pushchairs, bicycles, and luggage.

Contract Award

An 8-year contract has been awarded to continue operating and maintaining the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) in London.

Last June 2025, we published an article about Renfe’s Aranjuez maintenance hub. Click here to read – Future of Rail: Renfe’s Railway Technology Hub, Aranjuez: Essential Guide

Conclusion

The DLR is introducing a fleet of 54 trains with advanced communication technology to improve service. The project includes past expansions and a recent contract for operation and maintenance. The fleet expansion will increase capacity by more than 60 percent.

Company Summary

Transport for London: Awarded a EUR 400 million contract in 2019 for the supply of 43 trains.

DfT: Ordered 11 additional trains in 2023.

Docklands Light Railway (DLR): A railway network in London.

Technology

CBTC signalling: Digital signalling technology used on the DLR network.

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