Ireland’s Electric Trains Delayed Until 2027 Shocking Commuters and Halting Dart+ Expansion Across Dublin and Wicklow – New Update You Need to Know

Published on October 24, 2025

In the latest railway news, commuters in Wicklow are facing a frustrating delay regarding the introduction of electric trains on the Drogheda line. Initially scheduled to begin operating later this year, these new electric trains are now delayed until at least 2027 due to battery issues. The delay has come as a disappointment to passengers who were looking forward to improved commuter services and relief from overcrowding. This setback is particularly concerning for the Wicklow region, where the train network struggles with congestion.

Impact of Electric Trains Delay on Dart+ Program and Commuter Services

The delay of the electric trains has broader implications for the Dart+ program, one of the key initiatives for transforming Irish Rail’s commuter services. The Dart+ program aims to extend the electrification of the rail network across the Greater Dublin area, enhancing services with increased capacity and better frequency. However, the postponed arrival of the electric trains means the programme will experience delays, affecting the ability to offer the upgraded services planned for areas like Maynooth, M3 Parkway, and Drogheda.

Originally, the new electric trains were expected to replace older, more overcrowded carriages on multiple routes, easing congestion and providing a better passenger experience. But with this delay, Irish Rail will have to continue using the older fleet for longer, leaving commuters to deal with overcrowded trains for the time being. This further highlights the ongoing issues with overcrowding in commuter services, particularly in the Wicklow area, and the delays in improving the overall network.

What’s Behind the Delay in Electric Trains?

Mary Considine, the new chief executive of Irish Rail, explained the situation during a meeting with the Oireachtas Committee on Transport. She stated that the delay was caused by an issue with “our supplier’s supplier,” which has affected the production of the necessary batteries for the new trains. As a result, the electric trains will not be operational on the Drogheda route until at least 2027, pushing back the expected improvements to commuter services.

This delay has disrupted plans for both the railway network and the Dart+ programme. While Irish Rail continues to push forward with its electrification plans, this setback is a blow to their timeline, making it harder to meet the goals set for modernising commuter services across Dublin and beyond.

Broader Effects of Transport Delays on Railway Network and Commuters

The delayed rollout of electric trains also has a ripple effect on the transport system. The Dart+ programme, designed to make commuter services more efficient and environmentally friendly, will now face significant delays. One of the major projects under this programme is the Dart+ Coastal South Stage 1, which will improve the Bray to Greystones section of the network. The project aims to increase the number of trains running on this route by 50%, adding a third train per hour in both directions. This upgrade was expected to reduce congestion, but with the electric trains now delayed, this improvement will be postponed, further contributing to overcrowding on the rail network.

In addition to frequency improvements, the Dart+ programme includes several other key upgrades, including track modifications and platform adjustments. However, without the electric trains, these upgrades will not have the same impact, leaving commuters stuck with an outdated system for longer than expected.

Environmental Goals and the Role of Electric Trains in the Future

The introduction of electric trains was also a vital step for Irish Rail to meet Ireland’s decarbonisation goals. These trains are intended to replace older diesel-powered trains, reducing carbon emissions and making the rail network more environmentally sustainable. With the delay in electric trains, the government’s environmental targets will be harder to reach on time, putting additional pressure on Irish Rail to find alternative solutions for reducing emissions in the transport sector.

The shift to electric trains was also a step toward creating a more modern and efficient public transport system. The delay, however, puts this vision on hold, leaving commuters to wait for the benefits of greener, more efficient services.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Electric Trains and Commuter Services?

Looking ahead, the delay in electric trains is a significant challenge for Irish Rail and commuters. The new fleet of electric trains was expected to help improve services in areas like Wicklow, where overcrowding has been a persistent issue. With the delay pushing the introduction of these trains to 2027, passengers will have to deal with continued congestion and outdated services.

The extension of Dart services to Wicklow Town, originally set for 2029, will also be impacted by this delay. The electric trains were a critical part of these plans, and without them, the timeline for new services will likely be pushed back. This only adds to the frustration of commuters who were already dealing with limited service options.

Conclusion: A Delayed Future for Railway News and Commuter Services

In conclusion, the latest railway news highlights a significant setback for Wicklow commuters and the broader transport network. The delay of the electric trains, a crucial component of the Dart+ program, will push back improvements to commuter services and the electrification of the rail network. The ripple effect of this delay will be felt across the Greater Dublin area, with overcrowded trains continuing to be a problem for the foreseeable future. The ambitious goals of the Dart+ programme will now take longer to realise, leaving passengers in the waiting game for modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly services.