New generation train connected and ready to roll

The first New Generation Rollingstock train has rolled through Brisbane’s rail network today to commence its extensive testing journey so it can pass inspection and become a commuter passenger train later this year.

Minister for Transport Stirling Hinchliffe said first train in South East Queensland’s new flagship fleet arrived in the Port of Brisbane on Monday and would move to the purpose-built Wulkuraka Maintenance Centre, west of Ipswich, to continue its extensive testing regime to meet operational and safety standards in readiness for passengers.

“Over next three years 75 six-car train sets will be delivered to the Port of Brisbane and gradually rolled out onto the South East Queensland passenger rail network,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Technical specialists from NGR train builder Bombardier Transportation connected six cars of the new train so it could be hauled to its new home.

“Before being moved, the train had to undergo a series of safety tests which included having its air-hose pressure and brakes tested ready for it to be hauled by diesel locomotives.

“Once the train arrives at Wulkuraka it will continue its extensive testing regime to meet Queensland Rail operational and safety standards in readiness for passengers.”

Mr Hinchliffe said the NGR train’s operational and passenger comfort features including the seats, endurance of the door system, and the dynamic performance of the braking and traction systems would be tested.

“One of the most important elements of the trains is the ‘full-load capacity’ braking system test to meet Australian standards under a range of environmental conditions and speeds,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

The first NGR train is expected to enter service on the South East Queensland passenger rail in the second half of this year.

Overlay vision (vision of the train and grabs): LINK 

Overlay vision (vision of train being unloaded): LINK

Media contact: Jessica Hill 0475 950 772