Yesterday, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) announced that its 5000 series prototype rail cars will begin in-service testing on the Blue Line beginning Monday. The cars currently are running on the Green Line and previously were tested on the Red Line.

The 10 prototype cars are being tested to determine how they’ll perform when operating in normal conditions. The cars must complete testing on all eight lines before CTA will authorize delivery of the remaining 396 cars.

Each car features seven networked security cameras, an event recorder system similar to an airplane’s black box and sensitive door sensors. The cars’ aisle-facing seat configuration is designed to accommodate more riders per car and allow for room for personal items.