TasRail’s Locomotive Life Extension Project (LLEP) is overhauling eight 2050 and 2000 class legacy locomotives in Launceston to prolong operational life and improve service reliability and safety.
The LLEP was made possible through a $15m investment from the Tasmanian Government. Treasurer, Guy Barnett, said this project is a win-win.
“Through this investment we have secured highly skilled, well-paying jobs in Northern Tasmania while also setting ourselves up for future success,” he said.
“The team at TasRail has done a fantastic job and these freshly overhauled trains now have new engines, better driver facilities and improvements to major components.”
The dedicated LLEP team completed overhaul works on two of the 2050 class locomotives in late 2024. Both have now re-entered service to provide invaluable haulage power across the network, with a third 2050-class expected to join them by mid-2025.
“The program is enabling these locomotives to continue freighting Tasmania’s agricultural, mining and forestry products for years to come as TasRail plans ahead to transition to an even lower-emissions fleet in the future,” Barnett said
“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future we’re always looking to support and enhance our key industries – this project is a great example.”
Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent said that Tasmania’s rail network was a vital part of the State’s transport infrastructure.
“TasRail provides a vital, low emissions and cost-effective alternative to road transport for Tasmanian industry,” Vincent said.
“Last year TasRail delivered over 510 million net tonne kilometres, an increase of over 25 per cent in 10 years, while maintaining a strong record of on-time service delivery.
“If we didn’t have rail in Tasmania, there would be approximately 150,000 additional large truck movements on our roads each year. That’s over 400 trucks per day. This reduces road maintenance requirements and improves safety for motorists and other road users.”
The comprehensive overhauls involve:
- Installing new engines to improve performance and reliability.
- Revamping major components such as traction motors, generators braking and control systems and locomotive wiring.
- Enhancing driver’s cabins, in consultation with TasRail’s operational team, to improve efficiency and comfort.
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