Another New Train Arriving

19 July 2004

Auckland’s fleet of modernised trains continues to grow, with the launch of the second SA Train later this week.

The train will begin services along the Western line on Thursday, after being stripped and completely re-built according to customised designs in Dunedin.

The first SA train was launched at a ceremony in April, by the Minister of Finance.

The train features a modern European-inspired interior and exterior, and has been designed to accommodate peak passenger demands.

The Auckland Regional Council commissioned the construction of the SA trains in July last year, to address a shortage of trains in the region.

They are being re-built as part of a $61 million Government train-upgrade funding package, in order to meet interim passenger demands generated by improved services and infrastructure development.

Up to ten SA Trains are due to arrive in Auckland by 2006. Each seats between 190-260 passengers, depending on the number of carriages, and will be powered by a single locomotive at one end, with a drive-cab at the other. Delivery of the first of the driving cabs is expected in October.

The SA Train project is being managed by Toll NZ, under contract to the ARC.

The third SA Train is due to begin services in September.

ENDS

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