Victoria buys 18 more VLocity trains

The Victorian Government has ordered an additional 18 VLocity regional trains (pictured) building on an impressive record of encouraging local rail manufacturing.

Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll said the latest order of regional trains was now under construction at Dandenong-based manufacturer Bombardier.

With an investment of $340 million in the Victorian Budget 2019/20, this new order will include 12 broad-gauge trains to improve capacity on Victoria’s busiest regional lines and six standard-gauge trains for the North East line, which is currently being upgraded.

The broad-gauge trains 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 will begin to replace the aging classic fleet on the North East line next year running between Melbourne and Albury.

The standard-gauge trains 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.

Carroll said: “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.”

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