NSW’s New Intercity Fleet (NIF) is undergoing testing under its own power, in a significant step forward for the regional rail fleet.
Minister for Transport Andrew ConstanceNIF inspected the new trains.
“When the trains first arrived, on-track testing involved using a locomotive to haul the carriages. What we’re seeing today is a really exciting milestone because they’re now travelling around the network under their own power,” said Constance.
Further testing on the Sydney Trains network will calibrate the systems for local operation.
“Over the next few months you’ll see more of these trains on the network as we progressively test all train systems including Automatic Train Protection, passenger door systems, passenger information, CCTV, ride comfort as well as the maximum speed of 160kph,” said Constance. “We’ll also be using this time to familiarise the train crew with the new operating systems and technology on board.”
The trains have been previously criticised by the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) for a feature which locks the train if the doors are open.
The fleet will serve regional centres in the Central Coast, Newcastle, South Coast, and Blue Mountains and upgrades to infrastructure and stations along the track are part of the delivery of the new fleet, said Minister for Regional Transport Paul Toole.
“These are modern trains featuring the latest technology, so we need to ensure we upgrade the infrastructure on the network to accommodate them.
“Work is also continuing on sections of the Blue Mountains Line, which will enable customers living between Springwood and Lithgow to experience a new train for the first time since the last of the V-Sets were introduced in 1989.”
The purpose-built maintenance facility for the trains at Kangy Angy on the NSW central coast is also progressing, said Toole.
“This work, along with the construction of the new maintenance facility at Kangy Angy, has helped to create around 1600 local jobs.”