All hail the new Toronto Rocket

There was a feeling of excitement among riders as Toronto Transit Commission introduced the first of its new subway trains Thursday on the Yonge-University-Spadina line.

“Love it!” exclaimed Sarah Lavoie, 34, as she travelled through all six cars of the new Rocket, taking pictures of herself.

Others turned on their smartphones and videotaped various parts of the shining train.

“All of them should be like this,” said Tom Biah, 20, adding the air conditioning “is great.”

The brand-new train is bright both outside and inside. The interior features more detailed information on maps as well as new accessibility and security features.

Patrick Hanson, a TTC driver for the past 22 years, said the new train feels more safe and secure than the old model.

“The whole system feels really smooth,” he said from his perch in the driving cabin. The operator has the capacity to monitor what’s going on in all six cars through a camera system in front of him.

The new train departed from the Downsview station after a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Toronto dignitaries that included Mayor Rob Ford.

The mayor called the new trains “very impressive,’’ noting they have more passenger capacity and are more accessible for the physically challenged… Read More [via torontostar]