The first Newcastle wireless light rail vehicle passed its initial test this week, moving along Hunter Street using its own power.
Testing began after the completion of a series of safety checks following the arrival of the vehicle from Spain last month.
Newcastle’s light rail vehicles feature energy storage units that are charged at each stop on the network during the boarding of passengers.
NSW transport minister Andrew Constance said that first powered test was a milestone on the way towards day time testing.
“Powered testing allows us to check things like the brakes, onboard energy storage and charging systems, while at the same time provides valuable training for crews in the new light rail system,” Constance said.
“Last night’s test involved running the vehicle along Hunter Street and checking the brakes and charging points at each stop.”
Testing is to continue at night over the coming weeks and will include simulations such as filling the tram with weights to mimic the load of full passenger capacity and checks to the traffic signal interactions at pedestrian crossings and intersections.
Night tests ensure the system is operating safely and efficiently under controlled conditions. Day time tests commence in the coming weeks and will involve simulated timetables and driver training.
Newcastle light rail services are scheduled to begin in early 2019.