Electric Tilt Train
| Electric Tilt Train | |
|---|---|
| In service | 1997 to Present |
| Manufacturer | Walkers |
| Built at | Maryborough |
| Constructed | 1997 |
| Number built | 2 |
| Number in service | 2 |
| Formation | 6 cars |
| Operator(s) | Queensland Rail |
| Depot(s) | Mayne |
| Line(s) served | North Coast |
| Specifications | |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99 mph) |
| Electric system(s) | 25 kV AC Overhead lines |
| Current collection method | Pantograph |
| Track gauge | 1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in) |
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The Electric Tilt Train is the name for two similar high-speed tilting trains operated by Queensland Rail on the North Coast line from Brisbane to Bundaberg and Rockhampton.
History
In March 1993 Queensland Rail issued a tender for the construction of two electric six-carriage tilting trains. In October 1994 a contract was awarded to Walkers, Maryborough with Hitachi to supply the electrical and tilting equipment.[1]
After an extensive program, on 6 November 1998 Australia's first pair of tilting trains entered service on the Spirit of Capricorn between Brisbane and Rockhampton. With a journey time of seven hours, they shaved over two hours from the schedule operated by InterCity Express sets.[2][3][4] In July 1999 a second daily service was introduced between Brisbane and Bundaberg.[5]
In May 1999 the Tilt Train set an Australian train speed record of 210 km/h (130 mph) north of Bundaberg, a record that still stands.[6][7]
In 2006 the electric sets underwent an $8.3 million refurbishment program at Mayne depot.
In 2016 these tilt train sets are undertaking refurbishment again, with the addition of high visibility yellow doors, and a complete redesign of the front ends. The traction packages were given a complete overhaul to extend the life of the tilt train. The trains also had Wi-fi installed to enable wireless internet for passengers. The first refurbished set has entered service in August.
Routes
Rockhampton
Commencing in 1997, the electric Tilt Train operates from Brisbane to Rockhampton. With a top service speed of 160 km/h (100 mph) and the ability to tilt five degrees in each direction, the Tilt Train is one of the fastest trains in Australia having the same top speed of the V/Line VLocity train which operates in Victoria. The train operates the on the North Coast line and serves the intermediate towns of Gympie, Maryborough, Bundaberg and Gladstone. The electric Tilt Trains run in a multiple unit configuration.
The electric Tilt Train features 2×2 economy seating, and 1×2 business class seating, mainscreen visual entertainment along with in-seat audio entertainment. Economy class passengers have a regular trolley service and a buffet style galley food service, while business class has a frequent trolley service and passenger attendants to tend to the needs of the passengers.
Bundaberg
A service from Roma Street to Bundaberg began in 2014.
References
- ↑ "Tilt EMUs Ordered for Brisbane - Rockhampton Run" Railway Digest November 1994 page 14
- ↑ Beattie, Peter (1 November 1998). "All aboard Australia's first Tilt Train". Ministerial Media Statements. Queensland Government.
- ↑ "Australia enters the Tilt Train era" Railway Digest December 1998 pages 22-25, 40
- ↑ Bredhauer, Stephen (30 December 1998). "Australia's Biggest Rail Investment". Ministerial Media Statements. Queensland Government.
- ↑ "Bundaberg Day-Return Tilt Service Commences" Railway Digest August 1999 page 15
- ↑ QR Limited (1999). Annual Report June 1999 (PDF). Brisbane: QR Limited. p. 53.
- ↑ "QR Tilt Train Sets Australian Rail Speed Record" Railway Digest June 1999 page 15