Toronto Rocket (Toronto Subway Car) - Delivery

Delivery

The new Toronto Rocket trains were expected to be delivered starting in late 2009 and start passenger service in early 2010. However, delivery was delayed due to the bankruptcy of a key part manufacturer, Curtis Doors, which was to install door components for the TTC's new subway trains.

The initial order signed in 2006 called for 234 cars, making for 39-six-car fixed trains, this would allow the TTC to replace the older H4 and H5 series trains with the new TR series trains. On May 6, 2010, however, the TTC voted to exercise a contract option with Bombardier for an additional 186 cars, making for 31 six-car fixed train sets. This would allow the TTC to retire the old H6 series trains operating on the Bloor–Danforth line, and to have enough TR series trains available to meet future ridership demands for the opening of the Spadina Subway extension to Vaughan.

On October 1, 2010, the first train set (5391-5396) was delivered to Wilson Yard and was first unveiled to the public and media at Downsview station on October 14, 2010.

In early May 2011, testing and operator training began during revenue service hours with the trains running out of service for passengers. The TTC held another open house (as part of Doors Open Toronto) at Davisville station on May 29, 2011, where passengers were able to tour the new train again.

The first TR train (5411-5416) entered revenue service on July 21, 2011. In June 2013, 35-36 TR trains were available for revenue service. The delivery of all 70 six-car fixed train sets (420 cars) is scheduled to be completed by 2014.