In Australia, the Victorian Government has exercised its call-off option for 18 Bombardier VLocity trains as part of an existing rolling-stock manufacture and supply agreement signed in 2018.
Bombardier is to deliver 54 new VLocity carriages, a mix of broad and standard-gauge vehicles, to public transport operator V/Line for operation across the regional rail network in Victoria, Australia.
All 54 carriages to be built at the company’s Dandenong facility using around 69 per cent local content and securing local jobs.
These will be the first VLocity trains to enter service on standard gauge tracks on Victoria’s regional network, running from Melbourne to Albury/Wodonga following the completion of the AUS$235 million (£133 million) North East Line Upgrade and a rigorous testing program.
The new design standard-gauge vehicles will include comfortable seats for the long-haul journey, built-in USB chargers, six luggage racks and overhead luggage storage, a modern catering facility and six wheelchair spaces with companion seats close by.
Earlier this month, Bombardier’s VLocity platform was awarded two prestigious Australian GOOD DESIGN® awards for Best Interior and an overall Gold award – both in the Automotive and Transport Category.
Bombardier’s president for Australia and New Zealand, Wendy McMillan said, “These 18 new award-winning VLocity trains build on the already strong bond between regional Victoria and Bombardier. We are proud to deliver these locally built, world class trains for V/Line.
She continued, “We thank the Victorian Government for their commitment to regional Victoria, Dandenong, to our people and products. Providing job security for our workforce and our local supply chain in Dandenong is critically important for our business and we look forward to being here for many years to come.”
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