Project Specific FAQs

Both the BEMUs and the EMUs have the same visual appearance, interior layout and performance characteristics, with the only significant difference being that the BEMU will have a traction battery system that allows for operation away from the overhead line system using energy stored in the traction battery system. Battery charging will take place at fixed fast charging stations located at terminus locations and by recovering braking energy.

It is currently proposed to use the battery electric trains on the northern line between Drogheda and Dublin City Centre. They will allow us to make full use of existing infrastructure and provide the necessary capacity and frequency uplift on this line while electrification is being progressed. 
 

The electric DART trains will be interoperable across all lines where an overhead electrified line exists. This will be from the City Centre to Maynooth, M3 Parkway, Hazelhatch/Celbridge, and Greystones. 
The first order of electric DART trains will be used to provide additional capacity on the existing DART network at peak times.  
The second order will operate to Maynooth through the DART+ West Project following commissioning of the required infrastructure upgrades.
Subsequent orders will operate via DART+ South West to Hazelhatch/Celbridge as well as be used to increase capacity across the overall network.

The interior configuration of the new DART+ Fleet is not yet finalised but one of the primary objectives of the design is to provide improved accessibility for train users including; 
•    Larger wheelchair spaces with easy access from adjacent doors
•    Uncluttered family areas to fit pushchairs and located close to doors
•    A mixture of seating and standing layouts to accommodate diverse passenger needs 
•    Bike stowage areas
•    E-bicycle and e-scooter charging spots
•    Wide gangways between carriages to allow ease of movement, create a more open connected feel and a greater feeling of security 
•    USB charging points and Wi-Fi throughout 
•    4 CCTV cameras per car to support passenger safety and security 
•    4 (PIS) Passenger Information System screens per carriage for real time travel information. The Passenger Information System will be fully compatible with the Official Languages Act and will have a clear view from all wheelchair areas and priority seats.

We expect to take delivery of an initial order of 95 carriages from mid-2024 with a view to these cars entering service in 2025. 

Maintenance of the new DART fleet will occur in a purpose-built depot to the west of Maynooth. This depot is being delivered as part of the DART+ West Project.