Transport for NSW has ramped up testing on its new intercity fleet of trains with the first two now travelling on the network under their own power.
Minister for Transport, Andrew Constance and Minister for Regional Transport, Paul Toole welcomed the milestone, saying the new trains featured more amenities for customers.
“When the trains first arrived, on-track testing involved using a locomotive to haul the carriages,” Mr Constance said.
“What we’re seeing today is a really exciting milestone because they’re now travelling around the network under their own power,” he said.
“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.”
Mr Constance said the time would also be used to familiarise the train crew with the new operating systems and technology on board.
Mr Toole said upgrade works to infrastructure and the network were underway in order to accommodate the new trains.
“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,” Mr Toole said.
He said the new intercity fleet was comprised of 55 10-car trains, to service customers across the Central Coast, Newcastle, South Coast and the Blue Mountains.
