They were the first Toronto subway cars to be manufactured in Canada, and only one of two series built outside Ontario.

By 1960, the Toronto Transit Commission was preparing to expand its subway system to include the University line.

Built at the Duncan Shops by Leonard Bardsley and the D&D Equipment Company, the test car consisted of two trucks with three panels and was designed to test the size of train that could successfully navigate the tunnels.

A steel girder with railings allowed workers to walk and ride the car during tests.

All were scrapped except cars 5300 & 5301, which were given to the Halton County Radial Railway museum for preservation.