The Victorian Government has ordered another 10 E-Class trams to be built at Bombardier’s Dandenong workshops, in a deal to bring the fleet of modern, high-capacity E-Class trams to 90.
Transport minister Jacinta Allan said the $83 million contract would support 100 direct jobs at Bombardier’s Dandenong site, and an additional 500 jobs in the local supply chain.
“We’re ensuring more E-Class trams are on the way, supporting local jobs and helping Victorians get where they need to go,” Allan said.
“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.”
The 69th E-Class tram entered operation last week, and the 70th is due in coming weeks. Bombardier was scheduled to deliver another 10 after that; this contract makes it 20.
Based on Bombardier’s Flexity product line, the E-Class are three section, four bogie articulated trams the government says are Victoria’s biggest and most accessible.
The low floor trams have room for more than 200 passengers.
The latest E-Class trams to roll off the production line feature increased safety features like a new cab design, eight extra hand rails and more handles.
Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams said the Labor Party was giving certainty to industry and supporting local jobs.
“Only Labor can build the public transport network Victorians need,” Williams said.