Metro is hosting a Fleet of the Future Expo on the National Mall from March 20 to April 3 where visitors can step inside a model of the 8000-series trains.
The new design includes new seating configurations with more space to sit and stand, dedicated spaces to store bikes, strollers and luggage, separate spots for wheelchairs, open passageways between train cars and larger digital display screens.
The expo also features a 60-foot electric bus, a historic quiz, photo opportunities and a pop-shop selling Metro merchandise. It runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and is located at the intersection of 12th Street and Madison Drive.
The train mockup can accommodate no more than 20 people at a time. Because the expo coincides with peak cherry blossom blooms, some lines are expected to board the bus and train, according to a Metro press release. The recommended time in the mockup is seven to 10 minutes.
The 8000-series trains are projected to go into passenger service in 2027 after a pilot car launches in 2026. Metro first began the procurement process for the new design in 2018.
