Transport enthusiasts packed into Choi Hung Station on Sunday morning to greet the first in a new generation of trains on the MTR network.

The MTR says the eight-carriage “Q-train”, manufactured by CRRC QingDao Sifang Corporation, boasts wider doors, better designed seats, more hand straps and LED lighting in compartments. It's one of 93 Q-trains acquired to replace British manufactured M-trains that have been in service for more than four decades.

The train pulled into the station at around 8.40am, and opened its doors minutes later. Excited passengers cheered as it left the station on schedule at 8.58am, bound for Tiu Keng Leng on the Kwun Tong Line.

One enthusiast, Mr Lee, told RTHK that he arrived at the station at around 7.30am, adding he had been waiting for this day for years since he was in junior secondary school.

“It is the best new chapter in Hong Kong’s railway history. It’s the biggest train replacement project, so I had been looking forward to it eagerly,” he said.

Another train fan, Mr Lam, said he had dressed up for the occasion.

“I had expected a crowd, so I arrived early and I dressed up properly. All the train enthusiasts are gathering for this huge party, so we are excited,” he said.

The MTR says the Q-trains will first be put into service on the Kwun Tong Line, followed by the Island, Tsuen Wan and Tseung Kwan O lines.