Melbourne’s SRL East: Alstom to Build Australia’s First Driverless Trains

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – The Victorian State Government has awarded the AUD 6.7 billion (EUR 3.78 billion) contract for the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East project to the TransitLinX consortium, a major move that includes the delivery of the first fleet of fully automated Metropolis trains to be built in Australia. This landmark deal will see Alstom, a key partner in the consortium, manufacture the state-of-the-art rolling stock at its facility in Dandenong, reinforcing local manufacturing capabilities.

Main Body:

In a significant step forward for Melbourne’s public transport infrastructure, the Victorian Government has formally selected the TransitLinX consortium to deliver the comprehensive rail systems for the SRL East. The consortium, comprising industry leaders John Holland, KBR, WSP, RATP Dev, and Alstom, will oversee the construction and integration of all critical operational systems. This includes the advanced signalling, platform screen doors, and passenger information displays for the 26-kilometre twin-tunnel line, which will connect Cheltenham to Box Hill via six new underground stations.

At the heart of the contract is Alstom’s commitment to deliver 13 four-car Metropolis trains, which will operate at Grade of Automation 4 (GOA4), the highest level of driverless technology. These trains will be managed by Alstom’s Urbalis Forward communications-based train control (CBTC) system, ensuring high-frequency and reliable service. The French manufacturer’s share of the contract is valued at EUR 1 billion and also includes a 15-year maintenance agreement under its FlexCare Perform solution. This long-term service contract covers the entire fleet, signalling, and infrastructure systems, which will be maintained at a purpose-built facility in Heatherton, ensuring maximum availability and performance once services commence in 2035.

The project places a strong emphasis on local industry and sustainability. The Metropolis trains will be manufactured in Dandenong, marking a pivotal moment for Australian rolling stock production. The entire SRL East network, including all stations and infrastructure, will be powered by 100% renewable energy. Furthermore, the trains will feature regenerative braking technology, capturing energy during deceleration to help power other trains across the suburban network. The interior design is future-proofed, with longitudinal seating to maximise space during peak hours and provisions for luggage storage to facilitate a seamless connection to Melbourne Airport in a future project phase, a critical link for Victoria’s multi-billion dollar tourism economy.

Key Takeaways

• Landmark Investment: The AUD 6.7 billion contract represents one of Australia’s most significant public transport investments, aimed at creating a new orbital rail line to transform Melbourne’s connectivity.
• Sovereign Capability Boost: For the first time, fully automated Metropolis metro trains will be built in Australia, supporting local jobs and advancing the nation’s high-tech manufacturing sector in Dandenong.
• Advanced & Sustainable Tech: The project commits to the highest level of automation (GOA4) for driverless operation and will run entirely on 100% renewable energy, setting a new benchmark for green transport infrastructure.

Editor’s Analysis

The selection of the TransitLinX consortium for Melbourne’s SRL East is more than a local infrastructure project; it’s a clear signal of the global trend towards integrated, high-tech, and sustainable urban mobility solutions. By bundling the delivery of rolling stock, signalling, systems, and long-term maintenance into a single contract, the Victorian Government is adopting a holistic lifecycle approach that prioritises reliability and performance. For the global rail market, this project highlights the increasing demand for GOA4 driverless systems in complex urban environments and the growing political and social imperative for local manufacturing and green energy commitments. Alstom’s success here solidifies its position as a world leader in automated mobility, while the project itself serves as a powerful case study for other megacities grappling with population growth and the need to decarbonise their transport networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Suburban Rail Loop (SRL) East?

SRL East is the first stage of a city-shaping orbital rail line in Melbourne. It involves a 26 km twin-tunnel line connecting Cheltenham and Box Hill with six new underground stations, designed to significantly improve cross-suburb travel and reduce congestion.

Who is responsible for building the trains and systems?

The TransitLinX consortium, which includes Alstom, John Holland, KBR, WSP, and RATP Dev, will deliver the project. Alstom is specifically responsible for the 13 automated Metropolis trains, the CBTC signalling system, system integration, and a 15-year maintenance contract.

When are the new services expected to begin?

The first trains on the Suburban Rail Loop East section are scheduled to begin passenger service in 2035.