New Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains are expected to return to customer service by late summer, following months of intensive testing, investigation and safety

assurance work by engineers.

Transport authorities say progress has been strong, with a phased reintroduction planned once final testing is complete. Further details on the rollout timetable are due to be shared this spring.

The trains were temporarily withdrawn as a precaution in late 2025 after a single incident in which one unit stopped beyond its intended position. Although it was the only occurrence of its kind, Transport for London (TfL) moved quickly to remove all three new trains from service, citing passenger safety as its top priority.

Since then, TfL has been working closely with CAF, the train manufacturer, to identify the root cause and introduce technical improvements to ensure the fleet can return safely and reliably.

Software upgrades and further testing underway

Engineers are now implementing a targeted package of upgrades, including updates to braking software designed to improve performance in rare low rail-adhesion conditions like those seen during the incident. These upgrades are currently being tested on CAF’s test track and will later be trialled on the Docklands Light Railway network itself.

To allow this testing to take place, some temporary network closures will be required. Customers are advised to check travel plans in advance using TfL’s journey planning tools.

A major upgrade for the DLR network

Once fully introduced, the new fleet will replace the oldest trains on the DLR and increase overall capacity by more than 50 per cent. The trains feature modern walk-through carriages, air-conditioning, improved accessibility, real-time travel information and enhanced safety systems — all aimed at making journeys more comfortable and reliable.

Stuart Harvey, TfL's Chief Capital Officer, said: "We know customers are looking forward to travelling on these new trains, and we will provide a further update in the spring, with the trains being reintroduced by summer. Our engineers, together with CAF and our franchisee KeolisAmey Docklands, have worked tirelessly to ensure they return safely and reliably. We are confident customers will welcome the extra space, improved accessibility, real‑time travel information and air‑conditioning these trains provide." 

More information on ongoing improvements across the DLR network can be found on TfL’s website.

Photo by Hippoattack at English Wikipedia.