The first of 30 new E-Class trams ordered by the Victorian Government has been deployed on Melbourne’s iconic tram network on Tuesday.
Built by Dandenong train and tram manufacturer Bombardier, the first low-floor E-Class tram has been inspected by Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan in Wellington Parade before it enters passenger service later this week.
Mr Andrews said the $274 million order secured 500 local jobs at Bombardier in Dandenong and local suppliers.
“We’re building bigger, better trams in Melbourne, for Melbourne – supporting hundreds of local jobs,” the Premier said.
“The E-Class tram is local manufacturing at its best – and we can take great pride that these locally manufactured trams will move locals and tourists efficiently and comfortably around our city.”
The E-Class trams are capable of carrying more than 200 passengers and feature a new cab design which makes passengers safer including eight extra hand rails and 24 more strap hangers.
These trams also boast state-of-the-art audio and visual passenger information, air conditioning, and dedicated spaces for passengers with mobility aids or prams.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan said the order was funded in the 2015-16 Victorian Budget as part of the Labor Government’s Trains, Trams, Jobs 2015-2025 ten-year rolling stock strategy.
“These trams will carry hundreds more passengers around our city and we can be proud they’re designed and built in Victoria,” she added.
“The former Liberal Government didn’t order a single new tram in four years. We’ve already ordered 30 to support jobs and carry more passengers on the world’s biggest tram network.”
