So design for the RAV line has got to be kicking into high gear. However, there still hasn't been any public information (that I can find) about what technology they are going to be using.

Most people seem to believe that they are going to be using the Bombardier's linear induction motor technology that was used on Skytrain. However, the reports submitted to the Environmental Assessment Office indicates that the line will not be connected to the existing line. Also they are building a new works and maintenance yard in Richmond. If they were using Skytrain technology they probably would not have built a whole new yard, but would have just expanded the existing one in Burnaby.

Initially when the Bombardier consortium lost the bid to the SNC Lavalin consortium (InTransitBC) there was some discussion that it was too bad that Skytrain would not be used. However, after that I heard a significant amount of discussion on the fact that SNC Lavalin was a primary contractor for the Millennium line and was therefore quite familiar with Skytrain's technology and nothing would stop them from purchasing that technology from Bombardier. Plus with the federal government on board for such a large stake it seemed likely they would be pushing for a Canadian built system.

The RAV website is silent on the whole issue and their FAQ section has been offline for quite a while now.

I think going with Skytrain would have been the right choice. It would be compatible with the existing system so that cars could be used where the demand was. As an engineer I of course love the elegance of the LIM design.

{edit out incorrect overhead line comment - July 5, 2005}