The brand new trains will begin rolling onto our railways from 2019, transforming intercity travel for customers in Newcastle, the Central Coast, South Coast and the Blue Mountains.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said the trains will offer comfort and convenience that will encourage people out of their cars.
“For customers travelling more lengthy trips, these trains will be more spacious, more comfortable and have features never before seen on our long distance services,” Mr Constance said.
The new fleet of trains will include modern CCTV surveillance technology to ensure safety, help points and digital screens. New features will include:
- Charging stations for mobile devices on each seat
- Two by two seating on upper and lower levels
- Wider, fabric-covered seats with arm rests and more space
- Cup holders and tray tables
- Dedicated space for luggage, prams, bicycles and wheelchairs
- Accessible toilets
- Digital screens and announcements.
The new intercity fleet of more than 500 new carriages will be built by RailConnect, a joint venture between the Hyundai Rotem Company, Mitsubishi Electric Australia and UGL Rail.