The N train was the first New York City Subway service to use R160 subway cars in regular passenger service.
The R160 fleet was ordered for the B Division, which uses lettered routes. The cars introduced newer electronic displays, automated announcements, improved passenger-information systems, and other features compared with earlier subway fleets. Kawasaki and Alstom built the cars in several related production groups.
Initial R160 testing and deliveries focused on B Division routes, and the N became the first service to receive the cars for regular operation. The fleet later spread across many lettered services, making the R160 one of the most visible modern subway-car types.
The R160 designation identifies the rolling-stock class, not a route. This is an easy distinction to miss because New York subway discussions often place car classes and service letters next to each other. The N is the route fact asked for here.