Testing is now underway on Melbourne’s new High Capacity Metro Trains which will be capable of carrying 1,100 passengers - 20 per cent more than any other train on the network.
Also on this page:
- Network testing begins
- First Peoples' artwork
- Cranbourne/Pakenham line works
- Project status
- More information
- Contact us
The Victorian Government has ordered 65 High Capacity Metro Trains as part of a $2.3 billion commitment to get more Victorians where they need to go.
Melbourne’s bigger, better trains will be a carriage longer, have improved seats, and better accessibility features.
Initially, the new trains will run on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, and eventually through to Sunbury once the Metro Tunnel opens.
New high-capacity signalling will enable more trains, more often travelling at intervals of just two to three minutes.
This project has generated jobs for more than 1,100 Victorians right across the state and is reviving the local rail manufacturing industry. It is a public-private partnership between the Victorian Government and Evolution Rail.
Learn more about the new train fleet.
Network testing begins
Melbourne’s bigger, better trains are being tested on the metropolitan network to ensure they are safe and ready for passengers.
The first train completed successful overnight tests on a section of the Pakenham line during October 2019. The testing program will now ramp up and include stopping at stations, responding to signals and undergoing speed tests.
While most tests will take place on the Pakenham line, some trains will also be tested on other lines to ensure they perform in a range of conditions and to keep testing going during planned works.
This is an ongoing testing program which will continue at various times and locations until all 65 trains are delivered.
To minimise disruption for passengers, testing will be conducted at night and occasionally during non-peak periods.
Passengers will be advised in advance so they can plan ahead.
For the latest up-to-date information on how this might affect your journey, visit ptv.vic.gov.au or vline.com.au.
Shortlist announced: First Peoples' art for first new train
Victoria is proud to be the creative state and home to world-leading First Peoples artists.
To celebrate this, the first new train will feature exterior artwork created by an Aboriginal artist or collective who are Victorian traditional owners.
Four artists and collectives are in the running to have their artwork splashed across all seven carriages on the first train following an expression of interest process.
The four shortlisted artists are:
- Kirrae Whurrong woman Fiona Clarke (Warrnambool)
- Boon Wurrung man Adam Magennis (Mornington)
- Wurundjeri woman Mandy Nicholson (Hampton Park)
- Ballarat-based mob of three Koori men, Pitcha Makin Fellas, who belong to different language groups.
The artists have produced vibrant, uniquely First People’s with themes ranging from cultural diversity and meeting places to journeys and time.
The shortlisted artists will receive a fee for their designs and a panel of judges, including two Traditional Owner representatives, will select the successful applicant.
The winning artist will receive an additional $18,000 commission for their work to be manufactured and installed on the first new train.
Learn more about the shortlisted designs.
Preparing for new trains
Sunbury line upgrade
The Sunbury line upgrade will deliver power upgrades and platform extensions to ensure the new High Capacity Metro Trains can run on the line.
The project will also maximise the benefits of the Metro Tunnel project, creating room for 113,000 more peak passengers every week and allowing trains to run more frequently and carry more passengers.
Learn more about this project.
Cranbourne/Pakenham line works
You'll notice work taking place on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, including station platform extensions and upgrades to power and signalling, to enable the new trains to run on Melbourne's busiest rail corridor.
To find out more about how your trip may be affected, visit ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007.
Project status
| Milestone | Date/projected date |
|---|---|
| Contract signed with Evolution Rail |
November 2016 |
| Consultation commences on train design |
February 2017 |
| Train design phase ends |
Early 2018 |
| Manufacturing commences at Newport |
Early 2018 |
| Delivery of the first HCMT for testing |
November 2018 |
| Depot operational |
December 2018 |
| First HCMT operational on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines |
From mid 2020 |
| Delivery of the 65th HCMT |
2023 |
| Opening of the Metro Tunnel with HCMTs |
2025 |
More information
- Evolution Rail
- Victoria’s big build – road and transport projects now under construction
- The Metro Tunnel
Download the project summary (PDF 869KB) or view the project agreement.
Contact us
For more information, email [email protected]