MTR Metro Cammell EMU (DC)

Metro-Cammell EMU

Company type	Electric multiple unit train
Industry	Rail transport
Founded	1976
Founder	Metro-Cammell, GEC-Alsthom (now Alstom)
Fate	Being replaced by CRRC Sifang EMU (Q-train)
Successor	CRRC Sifang EMU (Q-train)
Headquarters	Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong , Hong Kong
Area served	Hong Kong MTR network (Tsuen Wan line, Island line, Tseung Kwan O line, Disneyland Resort line)
Products	Electric multiple unit trains
Owner	MTR Corporation

{{Infobox train | name = | image = | stocktype = Electric multiple unit | service = – present (Tsuen Wan line, Island line, Tseung Kwan O line)
– present (Disneyland Resort line) | manufacturer = Metro-Cammell, GEC-Alsthom (currently Alstom) | factory = Washwood Heath, Birmingham, England
Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong | refurbishment = United Goninan (1998–2001) | successor = CRRC Sifang EMU (Q-train) | formation = 8 cars per trainset (initially 4 and 6 cars) (Local)
4 cars per trainset (Disneyland Resort line) | fleetnumbers = Axxx, Bxxx, Cxxx, Dxxx, Pxxx, Qxxx | operator = MTR Corporation | depots = Kowloon Bay
Tsuen Wan
Chai Wan
Tseung Kwan O
Siu Ho Wan | lines = | yearconstruction = 1976–1994 (Local), 1994 (Disneyland Resort line) | yearservice = 1979–1989 (Phase 1 & 2), 1994–1998 (Phase 3), 2005 (Disneyland Resort line) | yearscrapped = Starting from 2022 (urban lines) 2028 (Disneyland Resort Line) | numberbuilt = 768 cars (95 sets + 6 surplus cars + 3 Disneyland Resort line sets) | numberservice = 536 cars (67 sets), as of January 15, 2025 | numberscrapped = 236 Regular Service Carriages (26 full trainsets) [other extra 4 are accident carriages] | carbody = Aluminum | trainlength = (Urban lines) | carlength =

| width = | height = (with pantograph folded)

(without pantograph) (top of air conditioner flush with crest of roof)

|} The Metro-Cammell EMU, also referred to as the M-Train or Modernisation Train, represents the longest-serving electric multiple unit within Hong Kong's MTR rapid transit network. Built between 1977 and 1994 by Metro-Cammell in England and its successor GEC-Alsthom (now Alstom), a total of 768 vehicles were produced. These units underwent refurbishment conducted by UGL Rail from 1998 through to 2001.

Urban line stock

The M-Train, together with subsequent models such as the C-Train, TML C-train, R-train, and former KCR rolling stock, is designed with five pairs of double-leaf sliding doors on each side per carriage to facilitate swift passenger movement during boarding and alighting. This design contrasts with the plug door systems found on the K-Train and AdTranz-CAF trains. Primarily deployed on the Tsuen Wan line, Island line, and also operating alongside newer trains on the Tseung Kwan O line, each car measures wide across its body panels, with a floor height of and a roof height of approximately .

Performance-wise, the M-Train accelerates at (), utilizing regenerative braking combined with air brakes at a matching deceleration rate, complemented by an emergency air brake capable of (). The maximum achievable speed is , though operational limits restrict this to . While equipped for fully automated operation, a single operator remains onboard to manage door functions and oversee safety. The suspension system incorporates primary chevron springs alongside secondary air bags, while traction control predominantly employs Gate turn-off thyristor (GTO) chopper technology. Seating capacity per carriage stands at 45 passengers, with standing room for up to 268 individuals including dedicated wheelchair spaces, resulting in an overall capacity exceeding 2,500 passengers or approximately 3,000 under crush load conditions. Upon its introduction in 1979, the M-Train was recognized as having one of the highest metro car capacities globally.

A related electric multiple unit variant operated on the East Rail line—known as the Mid-Life Refurbishment Train—was initially run by the Kowloon-Canton Railway prior to the 2007 merger with MTR. Ownership of these 29 refurbished units remained with the Kowloon-Canton Railway Corporation. All Mid-Life Refurbishment trains were withdrawn from service by May 2022, whereas all remaining M-Trains are projected to be retired between 2029 and 2030.

Disneyland Resort line rolling stock

At the inception of the Disneyland Resort line in 2005, refurbished M-Train sets from the early 1990s were allocated to service this route. These trains underwent a Disney-themed redesign by MTR, incorporating statues of beloved characters such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck within the interiors.

The units A/C274, A/C281, A/C284, A/C289, A/C291, and B/C490 were comprehensively overhauled specifically for the Disneyland Resort line. Distinctive features compared to standard mainline trains include:

• The B car of B/C490 is equipped with an additional driver's cab.
• Each carriage is fitted with three doors on each side, totaling six per car.
• Door mechanisms were converted from pneumatic to electric operation.

Each carriage spans wide across its body panels; the height from floor to rail measures , while the overall height from roof to rail stands at .

Technical specifications highlight acceleration at (), regenerative blended service braking matching this rate, and emergency air brakes capable of (). The maximum operational speed reaches . Although these trains function autonomously, they maintain an operator’s cab visible through the front windows. Suspension systems combine chevron springs with air bags, and traction control employs GTO chopper technology.

Variants

M-Train rolling stock is divided into six classifications:

• CM-Stock – Modified stock originally from the Kwun Tong line (A/C101-170, B/C401-435)
• CT-Stock – Modified units from the Tsuen Wan line (A/C171-247, B/C436-458, 460-479)
• I-Stock – Stock assigned to the Island line (A/C248-256, B/C459)
• G-Stock – Trains introduced for the Eastern Harbour Tunnel extension (A/C257-269, B/C480-485)
• H-Stock – Units upgraded for SACEM signalling system implementation in 1996 (A/C270-291, B/C486-496)
• Q-Stock – Comprises all D cars (D601-788)

Refurbishment

Between 1996 and 2001, the entire fleet underwent a comprehensive refurbishment program. This included a redesigned front end featuring a silver and black color scheme that replaced the original red stripe and white front. Enhancements incorporated new electronic displays for destinations and train numbers, improved interior lighting and seating arrangements, dot-matrix screens providing news and weather updates, as well as illuminated system maps highlighting stations and lines. The traditional black spherical strap hangers were substituted with red handles, complemented by grab poles also marked in red. Exterior fibreglass panels received modernization treatments. Additionally, advanced digital voice announcement (DVA) systems and passenger information technology were installed. Maintenance contracts for MTR rolling stock were awarded to United Goninan. Some of these improvements were exclusively added to M-Trains by late 2001.

A planned second refurbishment under contract C1066-13E aimed to update both interior and exterior elements but was ultimately canceled due to a strategic shift toward replacing M-Trains with new-generation trains. Notably, train set A247/A232 experienced partial upgrades including the installation of yellow double-branched poles replacing certain handles and grab poles; however, some red poles remained in use.

In August 2024, marking MTR’s 45th anniversary, one M-Train was adorned with a retro livery reflecting its appearance prior to refurbishment.

Traction systems and train configurations

From 1992 to 1995, traction systems on M-Stock and T-Stock trains were upgraded from Camshaft control to Chopper control technology, resulting in the current CM-Stock and CT-Stock designations. This enhancement improved operational performance while lowering maintenance expenses. All I-Stock trains serve the Island line, except unit A126/A255 which was reassigned to the Tsuen Wan Line; three cars were scrapped in 2019 due to irreparable damage. Remaining cars were relocated to Siu Ho Wan Depot or scrapped by 2022.

A standard 8-car M-train formation running in the up track direction typically follows: A-C+D+C-B+D+C-A. Previously, a configuration consisting entirely of motor cars—A-C+C-B+C-B+C-A—was operated but is no longer active in service; however, M-Trains retain the capability for such arrangement. Units A/C274, A/C281, A/C284, A/C289, A/C291, and B/C490 have been refurbished specifically for Disneyland Resort operations. Earlier MTR service also utilized shorter formations of six cars (A-C+C-B+C-A) and four cars (A-C+C-A).

Phase 1

In 1975, during the development of the Modified Initial System, contenders for supplying rolling stock included Australia's Commonwealth Engineering, Belgium's La Brugeoise et Nivelles and ACEC, Canada's Hawker Siddeley Canada and Bombardier Transportation, Germany's MAN SE, and Britain's Metro-Cammell.

MTRC placed its inaugural order with Metro-Cammell in July 1976 for 140 rail cars. The first M-Stock trains (currently known as CM-Stock) were constructed in 1978 and underwent testing on the Tyne and Wear Metro test track in England before being delivered to Kowloon Bay Depot later that year. Additional sets were received between 1979 and 1982. Between 1992 and 1995, their traction control was upgraded from GEC camshaft resistance systems to GTO chopper technology. Initially deployed on the Kwun Tong line, these trains now operate on the Tsuen Wan line.

Phase 2A

The T-Stock trains (now referred to as CT-Stock) represent MTR’s second series, delivered between 1982 and 1985. Their traction systems were similarly upgraded to GTO chopper technology during the period from 1992 to 1995. Presently, these units serve the Tsuen Wan line.

The traction system of A/C182 was modernized from camshaft resistance control to RCT chopper in 1983, followed by an upgrade to GTO chopper in 1987.

Phase 2B

MTRC’s third procurement, the I-Stock trains, were ordered in 1981 for the forthcoming Island line. Delivered between 1985 and 1986, these trains operate on the Island line with the exception of set A255/A126.

While B/C459 utilized camshaft resistance control until 1987, other units adopted Mitsubishi RCT chopper control. The components of B/C459 were sourced from A/C182.

Phase 2C

Constructed for the Eastern Harbour Crossing extension of the Kwun Tong line (which has been part of the Tseung Kwan O line since 2002), the G-Stock trains were delivered between 1988 and 1989. Initially assigned to the Kwun Tong line, they were transferred to the Tsuen Wan line in December 2017. These units mark the final batch of MTR M-Trains produced by Metro-Cammell prior to its acquisition by GEC-Alsthom in 1989.

Phase 3

In March 1992, MTRC awarded a contract to GEC-Alsthom for 64 rail vehicles (48 motor cars and 16 trailers), with an option for an additional 24 cars. Delivered between 1994 and 1998 as H-Stock trains, some were refurbished specifically for use on the Disneyland Resort line, while others operated on Tseung Kwan O and Kwun Tong lines before being reassigned to the Tsuen Wan line in December 2017. Notably, eighty-eight of these cars were assembled locally at Kowloon Bay Depot.

Q-Stock

Distinct from the MTR CRRC Qingdao Sifang EMU (also called Q-Train), Q-stock D-car trailers were procured across four phases: Phase 2A (1984–85), Phase 2B (1985–86), Phase 2C (1988–89), and Phase 3 (1994–98). Each car measures wide, with a floor height of from rail level and a roof height of above rail level.

Surplus / retired cars

Surplus rolling stock includes B/C493, B/C445, A/C112, A/C126, D736, D737, and D784. Some units have been cannibalized for parts to maintain other carriages, limiting their operational viability; several were dismantled in August 2022.

Retired units consist of A/C131, A/C255, B/C451, B/C459, and D652. B/C459 was withdrawn in 2008 due to motor failures combined with unavailability of Phase 2B components; it was replaced by backup unit B/C404 operating on A/C227 - A/C170 (now A/C227 paired with A/C214 on the Tsuen Wan line). Both D652 and B/C451 sustained severe damage during CBTC testing in 2019. Three cars (A/C187, D659) were reassembled together with B/C402, D706, and A/C218 into a new eight-car formation (A187/A218), which returned to service in December 2019.

Set A255/A126 was decommissioned following damage sustained in the October 6 Lai King collision; bogie defects led to its scrapping at Tsuen Wan Depot. Earlier surplus vehicles included A/C115, A/C145, A/C273, B/C404, and D784.

Train configurations

Original M-Train car types
car category	driver's cab	motor	pantograph	length of car		total number of cars
				mm	ft in
A car	✓	✓	✗	22,850	74 ft 11.6 in	191→186
B car	✗	✓	✗	22,000	72 ft 2.1 in	96→95
C car	✗	✓	✓	22,000	72 ft 2.1 in	287→281
D car (trailer)	✗	✗	✗	23,160	75 ft 11.8 in	188
M-Train cars after Disneyland refurbishment
car category	driver's cab	motor	pantograph	length of car		total number of cars
				mm	ft in
P car	✓	✓	✗	22,850	74 ft 11.6 in	6
Q car	✗	✓	✓	22,000	72 ft 2.1 in	6

Replacement

The entire fleet of 93 M-train sets is planned for decommissioning between 2022 and 2030, with scrapping operations conducted at the River Terminal Scrapyard located in Pillar Point, following the approach previously applied to MLR trains. Initially, MTR intended to substitute only 78 train sets. However, in July 2015, a contract valued at HK$6 billion was awarded to CRRC Qingdao Sifang for the delivery of 93 Q-train sets, enabling the replacement of all M-trains by 2027 due to superior cost-effectiveness. Alongside this, the signalling infrastructure will be upgraded to a communications-based train control (CBTC) system. Presently, 36 M-trains operating on the Tsuen Wan Line have received provisional CBTC enhancements provided by Thales.

Additionally, the trains serving the Disneyland Resort Line are scheduled for replacement by 2028 with new models produced by CRRC Qingdao Sifang. The initial phase of retirements began following incidents in 2019, with comprehensive withdrawal starting on 10 September 2022. Decommissioned trains are dismantled at Siu Ho Wan Depot before being transported to scrapyards near Tuen Mun. Since January 2023, retirements have been occurring approximately once per month, frequently aligned with the rollout of new Q-train units; some months experience multiple retirements while others see none.

Planned export to Singapore

During the early 1980s, Metro Cammell in collaboration with GEC Traction put forward a modified version of the MTR M-Train EMU for Singapore's Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) network. Although their proposal was shortlisted alongside ASEA and a Kawasaki-led consortium, Metro Cammell ultimately lost the Contract 151 award to Kawasaki. This outcome was primarily due to the energy inefficiency associated with GEC Traction's camshaft system and an evaluation mistake involving London Underground rolling stock measurements. The defeat had a severe financial impact on Metro Cammell, resulting in a workforce reduction by 50% in August 1984 and culminating in its acquisition by GEC-Alsthom (currently known as Alstom) in 1989.

See also

• List of driverless trains

External links

• 1970s Metro-Cammell Products – Metcam.co.uk