Iarnród Eireann has unveiled its prototype of innovative new DART carriages.

This milestone marks the final phase of the design process, with the carriages expected to be added to the fleet in the coming years.

So far, 185 new carriages have been ordered, with delivery beginning in 2024 and entering service in 2025. Over 750 carriages will be ordered over the next 10 years.

These carriages will provide better accessibility for wheelchairs or people with mobility issues, as well as providing dedicated areas for families and bicycle areas.

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Welcoming the project milestone, Dublin Fingal TD, Alan Farrell said: "The DART+ programme is made possible by the National Development Plan, which will see major investments across all areas of our society, but importantly improving the quality and efficiency of our transport networks.

"Overall, the DART+ programme will double the passenger capacity on the DART and allow us to speed up the electrification of the Greater Dublin Area rail network. We anticipate the population living within 1km of a DART will increase by a staggering 140% in the years ahead, underscoring the need for a modern and reliable transport system."

He added: "I am looking forward to seeing new areas in Dublin Fingal, such as Donabate, Rush, Lusk, Skerries, Balbriggan and all stations to Drogheda, join the DART network in the coming years, this is something that will transform people's ability to get around Dublin for work, socialising and engaging with amenities.

"Commuters north of Malahide can expect significant additional choice once these new battery electric DARTs arrive on the network."