New South Wales considers tilt trains
29th August, 2012
A report that the New South Wales State Government is considering buying tilt trains could provide a major boost to Maryborough and its train manufacturer Downer EDI, Federal Member for Wide Bay Warren Truss said today.A New South Wales Government confidential report into CountryLink passenger train network, obtained by the Sydney Morning Herald, has identified Queensland’s tilt trains as an option to replace its ageing XPT fleet.
“While the report also considers two other options, including rebuilding or replacing the existing fleet, the report suggests that the tilt train option would have greater passenger appeal and could attract new patronage, and generate greater revenue,” Mr Truss said.
The report suggests that the tilt train option could increase patronage by 60 per cent and cut travel times between Sydney and Canberra from four hours and 19 minutes to three hours and 15 minutes.
“Downer EDI builds world class trains in Maryborough. The technology the manufacturer uses allows trains to travel faster, cutting travel times. They can also be fitted with a range of aircraft style accessories and entertainment options, to help make journeys more comfortable.”
Mr Truss said had been raising the tilt train option with the new NSW Government since their election and he was pleased that the proposal is now being taken seriously.
“The quality of the tilt train product, its speed, efficiency and fit out should represent an attractive proposition for potential purchasers such as CountryLink, looking to boost passenger numbers.
“A contract to participate in the supply trains to New South Wales could also help to secure the future of the Maryborough operation and support local jobs.”
