- Published:
- Monday 17 September 2018
The Andrews Labor Government is investing in more rolling stock to get Victorians where they need to go, with 10 more Victorian built E-Class trams to be built, freeing up space on our tram network and supporting local jobs.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan today announced Bombardier would be delivering another 10 trams, taking the total order to 40 trams since 2015 and boosting the entire modern, high capacity E-Class fleet to 90.
The $83 million investment is part of the Labor Government’s ten-year rolling stock strategy, which is delivering a boost to the Victorian economy and allowing more passengers to get to where they need to go.
This extra order of E-Class trams is supporting local jobs, giving the workers who have been building the trams in Dandenong further certainty by maintaining production levels at Bombardier.
The additional E-Class trams will support retention of around 100 direct jobs at Bombardier’s Dandenong factory, and 500 jobs in the local supply chain.
This continues the Government’s support of local jobs and locally-built rolling stock includes bigger trains, which will be in service on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines in 2019, and 48 VLocity trains have been introduced to the regional network since 2015.
Melbourne has the largest operating tram network in the world with 250 kilometres of double track and the Government is making the investments now to meet growing passenger demand.
Last week, the 69th E-Class tram rolled onto the network with number 70 to follow in coming weeks.
E-Class trams are the biggest and most accessible in Victoria, with low floors, more myki readers, better customer information and space for more than 200 passengers.
The trams include audio and visual passengers information, air conditioning and dedicated spaces for passengers who use prams or mobility aids.
The newest E-Class trams feature increased safety features including a new cab design, eight extra hand rails and more handles.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan
“We’re ensuring more E-Class trams are on the way, supporting local jobs and helping Victorians get where they need to go.”
“As they come off the production line, we’re getting them on the tram lines that need them most – as we continue to build a better, comfortable and more reliable public transport network.”
Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams
“Only Labor can build the public transport network Victorians need – giving certainty to industry and supporting local jobs.”