New York – The MTA’s sleekest subway cars just hit the B line — and for the first time ever, riders from Bronx to Brooklyn are getting a taste of the modern R211 fleet. Featuring wider doors, security cameras in every car, and brighter lighting, the rollout marks a big step forward in the MTA’s citywide transit modernization.
B Line Riders Now Boarding New R211 Subway Cars
In a major upgrade for subway riders, the MTA has officially introduced its newest R211 subway trains on the B line, expanding the fleet’s presence into all five boroughs for the first time. These advanced railcars, which are now running from the Bronx to Brooklyn, come equipped with several passenger-friendly improvements — including security cameras in every car, digital station displays, extra accessible seating, and wider doors designed to speed up boarding.
More Than Looks
According to NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow, this isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade. “I’m thrilled that B train riders from the Bronx to Brooklyn will experience safer and more reliable service with this addition,” he said. “The R211s are state of the art.”
MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara added, “These modernized train cars are a major investment for our riders, who will now have the chance to catch an R211 in all five boroughs.”
Key Features of the R211 Cars
- Security cameras in every car
- 58-inch-wide doors (8 inches wider than current doors)
- More accessible seating
- Brighter lighting and clearer signage
- Digital displays with station-specific info
- Shorter station dwell times = Faster service
Better Reliability on the Tracks
One of the biggest improvements is under the hood. These new trains boast a mean distance between failure (MDBF) of 220,000 miles — nearly five times better than the ageing R46 trains they’ll eventually replace. The enhanced reliability means fewer delays and smoother rides across the system.
What Lines Will Get the R211 Trains Next?
The rollout is part of the MTA’s long-term Capital Plan, which includes phasing out older models like:
R44s on Staten Island Railway
R46s currently running on the A, C, N, Q, R, W lines
R68s primarily seen on the B, D, N, and W lines
Earlier this year, open-gangway R211 cars (with walkthrough car connections) were launched on the G line, offering a new type of experience for NYC riders.
More Trains on the Way
The MTA has already approved the purchase of an additional 640 R211 cars, and depending on test results, another 437 cars could be added, including more with open gangways.
With R211 trains now running in all five boroughs, the MTA’s modernization plan is shifting into high gear. For B train riders, the upgrade means better service, safer rides and a taste of what the future of NYC transit looks like.
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