Infrastructure: Sydney Rapid Transit Trains unveiled
Transport for NSW has unveiled Australia’s first fully-automated rapid transit trains, which will run on the North West Rail Link.
The brand new rapid transit trains will run every 4 minutes during peak hours on the North West Rail Link as part of a $3.7 billion contract just signed by the NSW Government.
Sydney’s new trains will be built by international train supplier Alstom who produce rapid transit trains for global cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, Milan and Amsterdam.
Minister for Transport Gladys Berejiklian said the new 6-carriage trains would modernise the Sydney public transport network, delivering frequent and reliable services to customers.
“This project will transform and modernise public transport in Sydney forever. With tunnelling now underway and a contract signed to operate the rail network – the NSW Government is well and truly delivering,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Our customers tell us that frequency of services is one of the most important factors when travelling on public transport – on the North West Rail Link, you won’t need a timetable, you’ll just turn up and go”.
Transport for NSW is currently looking at seating configurations, but promise ample seating and innovations like multi-purpose areas for prams and luggage.
Services on the North West Rail Link will start in the first half of 2019.
Source: News Release NSW Government media release, 16 September 2014