Testing Underway for new Citytrains

New trains being rolled out onto the Citytrain network would undergo a rigorous 1200-plus point check before they were put into service, Minister for Transport and Main Roads Paul Lucas said today.

“This 1200-plus point check covers more than 12 sub-systems, including doors and access, lighting, on track tests and braking systems,” Mr Lucas said.

“Construction on the trains is going full steam ahead at Maryborough and testing by Queensland Rail is continuing.”

Mr Lucas said the tests were standard practice before Queensland Rail took official possession of the trains from the contractor.

“I’m keener than anyone to see these trains in service but the State Government won’t be asking for these vital checks to be rushed,” Mr Lucas said.

“The timetable detailed last year was that the first of the new trains would be undergoing a rigorous 1200-plus point check before being put into service – and that’s exactly what’s happening right now.

“I want the trains in service as soon as possible but not until they’re 100% certified – 99% is not good enough.”

Mr Lucas said while safety was always the State Government’s number one priority, the tests were important for other reasons as well.

“Because QR doesn’t take possession of the trains until they pass the rigorous 1200-plus point check, the contractor is responsible for footing the bill for any modifications, not Queensland taxpayers.”

Mr Lucas said Queensland Rail had begun testing on the first train on January 10 and had handed it back to the contractor on February 6 for rectification of a number of issues.

“Queensland Rail is currently undertaking testing on the next two trains.”

Mr Lucas said one issue that had been identified included air-conditioning units that were built 10mm (1cm) wider than specified by Queensland Rail.

Mr Lucas said that Queensland Rail had advised that while the new trains do fit through all tunnels on the Citytrain network, there was a 4m section in a tunnel between Brunswick St and Central where there could be a potential issue with clearance levels.

“All trains are built to have safe clearance levels across the QR network,” he said.

Mr Lucas said Queensland Rail was getting full co-operation from the manufacturer – EDI Bombardier – and they were already working to resolve some of the issues. Queensland Rail may also look at making slight modifications to the 4m stretch of tunnel.

“Identifying issues like this is precisely why we have this type of rigorous acceptance testing.”

Mr Lucas said Queensland Rail had advised that it was on track to roll out a revamped timetable with extra services from May, as planned, and that the first of the new trains may be in service within the next four weeks, pending final acceptance testing.

Media inquiries: Robert Hoge 3237 1942, 0419 757 868