The Victorian Government has placed an order for an additional 18 VLocity trains in a move that will support 100 direct local jobs and hundreds more through the local supply chain.
The $340 million order includes 12 broad-gauge and six standard-gauge trains that are now under construction at Dandenong-based manufacturer Bombardier.
The broad-gauge trains, to be used on Victoria’s busiest regional lines, have been designed for both short and medium distance services and will include a facelift including modified drivers’ cab, dedicated storage area for bicycles and accessibility improvements.
The long-haul standard-gauge trains, which will replace the aging classic fleet on the North East line next year, will feature built-in USB chargers, shared tables, dedicated spaces for luggage and bikes, modern catering and food facilities and six accessible spaces for people who use mobility aids with companion seats nearby.
All the new VLocity trains will also feature mobile phone signal boosters to deliver improved coverage for passengers throughout their journeys.
In announcing the latest order, Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll said the Victorian Government is continuing its massive investment in regional passenger rail and boosting Victorian jobs.
“Not only are we building great trains for Victorians – we’re doing it right here in Dandenong, providing jobs for 100 Victorians in construction, and creating work for hundreds more across the supply chain,” Mr Carroll said.
“We’re delivering the world-class regional trains Victorians deserve – with modern amenities to make people’s journeys around our state more reliable, accessible and enjoyable.”
Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan said the new VLocity trains will improve capacity on Victoria’s busiest regional lines and provide passengers with a more modern, comfortable journey between Melbourne and Albury.
“Alongside the upgrade of the North East Line, these trains will deliver a more modern, comfortable journey for passengers travelling between Melbourne and Albury – we can’t wait for them to hit the tracks,” the Minister concluded.
Bombardier’s President, Australia and New Zealand, Wendy McMillan said, “These 18 new award-winning VLocity trains build on the already strong bond between regional Victoria and Bombardier. We are proud to deliver these locally built, world class trains for V/Line.
She continued, “We thank the Victorian Government for their commitment to regional Victoria, Dandenong, to our people and products. Providing job security for our workforce and our local supply chain in Dandenong is critically important for our business and we look forward to being here for many years to come.”
