The Waratah's pre-production test train

A four-carriage pre-production test train is a key initiative to support the smooth introduction of Sydney’s next generation train fleet into service for commuters.

The pre-production test train will be used to tune key systems for the Waratah train, such as the traction motor and brakes. Network trials will begin in Sydney in early 2010, following initial testing in Newcastle.

Final manufacturing and assembly, and testing of the pre-production test train will be undertaken at the Downer EDI manufacturing rail facility at Cardiff, where the driver’s cabs and all four will have major electrical systems will be fitted.

The pre-production test train will not be fitted out internally and is not intended for passenger service.

The internal fit-out of the pre-production test train will only carry test benches for personnel undertaking the network trials and ballasted weights during network trials to replicate the same mass as four cars of a final eight-car train.

 PPP project marks another significant milestone (PDF, 27KB)

Fast facts

The pre-production test train will be manufactured using the Waratah trains cabs, bogies, traction motors, doors, windows, air-conditioning units and electrical auxiliary supply.

The internal fit-out of the pre-production test train will not have the passenger amenities (i.e. seats) as the final trains. Instead, it will carry test benches for personnel undertaking the network trials and ballasted weights during network trials to replicate the same mass as four cars of a final eight-car train.

The pre-production test train will undertake testing on the CityRail network primarily at night.