MS Multi-section car (New York City Subway car)

The MS Multi-section car was a type of experimental subway car tested on the New York City Subway system in the early 1950s. These cars were designed and built by several different manufacturers, including Budd and Pullman Standard, and featured a unique articulated design. The cars were composed of multiple sections connected by flexible joints, allowing them to navigate tighter curves than traditional single-unit subway cars.

The primary goal of the MS Multi-section car program was to explore ways to increase passenger capacity and improve ride quality on the subway system. The articulated design aimed to distribute weight more evenly and reduce noise and vibration. Several different configurations were tested, including varying numbers of sections and seating arrangements.

Despite showing some promise during testing, the MS Multi-section cars ultimately did not enter into widespread service on the New York City Subway. Issues with maintenance complexity, reliability, and cost contributed to their eventual abandonment. The cars were eventually retired and scrapped. While not successful in the long term, the MS Multi-section car program provided valuable insights into subway car design and helped inform the development of future generations of subway cars used in New York City.