A life-size mock-up of Melbourne’s X’Trapolis 2.0 is ready to be inspected by local community, passenger, accessibility and specialist groups to enable them to get a feel of the new train.
The X’Trapolis is a series of multiple units designed and built by Alstom, in close collaboration with suppliers the Department of Transport and Planning (DoTP) and Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM).
The $986 million project will deliver 25 brand-new X’Trapolis 2.0 trains and supporting infrastructure – gradually replacing the long-serving Comeng trains on the Craigieburn, Upfield and Frankston lines. The new trains will provide passengers with a more accessible, reliable and energy-efficient journey while supporting up to 750 local jobs.
The DoTP has invited a range of technical, accessibility and passenger representatives to experience the mock-up and provide feedback on the design.
The life-sized mock-up is one and a half carriages long and reflects the current layout of the train, including a driver’s cab, seats, mobility spaces, shared use spaces, and an accessibility ramp.
A DoTP spokesperson said that targeted engagement on the proposed train design was critical to ensure it meets the needs of Victorians. It follows workshops with accessibility groups and MTM experts on key elements of the train design in 2022.
“Our mock-up is a key step in our design process to ensure we get the final design right before construction gets underway,” he said.
“We’re working with a range of groups representing public transport users including accessibility advocates, passengers and drivers.”
Alstom senior subsystem manager Mehran Shivani said key features include:
- Capacity for 1225 passengers
- Enhanced accessibility with 20 mobility spaces, semi-automated boarding ramps, and continuous walkway
- Dedicated bike storage
- Smart technology including automated passenger counting
“We expect to consult over 60 user groups across 70 engagement sessions, including drivers, maintainers, Cycling Victoria, Vision Australia, Deaf Victoria and emergency services,” Shivani said.
