Victoria’s state government has almost doubled the number of trains it plans to purchase as part of its “High Capacity Metro Trains” programme.
Instead of the original 37 seven-car trains, the government now plans to order 65 units to help ease congestion between Cranbourne and Pakenham in Melbourne.
Around $2 billion is being invested in the new fleet, plus associated infrastructure and signalling schemes. Together, the project is expected to create 42 per cent more capacity along the corridor.
The new trains will be built in the state, creating up to 800 jobs, the government has announced.
The first of the new trains is due to be delivered in 2018.
Premier Daniel Andrews said: “We’re making the biggest order of new trains in Victoria’s history to create local jobs, reduce congestion on Melbourne’s busiest line and make the most of Melbourne Metro Rail from day one.
“These 455 new carriages will be built in Victoria, for Victoria – boosting the capacity of the network and creating hundreds of long-term Victorian jobs.”
Three companies have already been shortlisted to supply the new rolling stock: Bombardier, Eureka Rail, and Evolution Rail. The winner will be announced later this year.
