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Auckland’s second new train begins testing
20 November 2013
Auckland’s second new train begins testing
The second of 57 three-car electric trains has arrived in Auckland and is now undergoing extensive testing at the purpose-built Wiri Depot.
After a sea journey from the manufacturing plant in Spain, the new electric train has commenced the standard testing and commissioning programme ahead of it going into service in the second quarter of 2014.
Lloyd Major, Project Director for Auckland Transport’s Electric Train programme says excellent progress is being made towards ensuring that the new trains meet all necessary commissioning and safety requirements.
“We have already put the first electric train through an extremely rigorous series of tests to establish a benchmark for all future trains and I’m pleased to report that these new trains are world class in terms of the technology and benefits for passengers.
“A significant amount of work went into the design of the trains to ensure that they were not only world class, but specifically designed to meet the needs of Aucklanders and our unique weather and terrain. We’ve been excited by the first train’s performance and are now putting the second train through its paces,” he says.
“Passengers are going to be very pleasantly surprised at how comfortable and enjoyable the new trains are.”
Two trains are scheduled to arrive each month between now and November 2014. Thereafter, four trains will arrive monthly until all 57 have been delivered by July 2015. Each train will undergo around a month of testing and commissioning and will be used for driver training.
As part of the testing programme, the new electric trains will run on the Auckland rail network at night, during weekend shutdowns and over the summer holiday period. People are advised to take extra care around the rail network as the new trains can accelerate quickly and are very quiet.
The first electric train passenger service is expected to commence on the Onehunga line in the second quarter of 2014.
Editor’s note: Pictures of two new trains at Wiri Depot. High resolution copies available.
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