Melbourne HCMT: Rail Innovations for Australia’s Metro, Insights

Melbourne’s public transport is getting a boost! The first of 25 new high-capacity **Metro** trains has arrived, promising enhanced services for the city.

May 30, 2017 3:21 am

Introduction

In June 2024, the first of 25 new high-capacity Metro trains for Melbourne, Australia, has arrived at the Newport Workshops. The project, a collaboration between Rail Projects Victoria and the Evolution Rail consortium, aims to enhance the city’s public transport network and improve metro train services Melbourne.

Project Overview

The High Capacity Metro Trains (HCMT) project involves the procurement of 25 trains, each comprising seven carriages. The total project cost is AUD2.3 billion. The trains will operate on the Sunbury to Cranbourne/Pakenham lines through the Metro Tunnel, with the capacity to carry 1,100 passengers.

Manufacturing and Delivery

The new trains are being manufactured by Evolution Rail, a consortium consisting of Downer, CRRC, and Plenary. The first train was shipped from the CRRC Changchun factory in China. The remaining 24 trains will be progressively delivered to Melbourne, with the entire fleet expected to be operational by the end of 2025.

Features and Infrastructure

The HCMTs are designed to operate on the existing 1,500 V DC overhead system. They are equipped with advanced features to improve passenger comfort and accessibility, including wider doors, improved accessibility, and real-time passenger information systems. The introduction of these new trains is a critical component of the overall AUD11 billion investment in the Metro Tunnel Project.

Testing and Integration

Following the arrival at Newport Workshops, the first train will undergo extensive testing and commissioning. This process includes static and dynamic testing to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards. The testing phase will evaluate the train’s performance on the existing network before it is integrated into regular service.