First glimpse of new Metro train
05.11.2015
A life-size train model has been delivered for customer testing on Sydney Metro Northwest. The 13-tonne life-size train model has been delivered to the Showground Station site and is a full-scale version of approximately 75 per cent of the front carriage – including the distinctive nose section where customers will be able to travel while looking directly out the front of the fully automated train.
A key feature of Sydney’s new metro train is the two multi-purpose areas per train for prams, luggage and bicycles as well as wheelchair spaces and separate priority seating for those with reduced mobility. Inside, customers will be able to see from one end of the train to the other and it will have padded fabric covers on the seating – unlike many metros, which have hard plastic or stainless steel seats.
The trains work hand-in-hand with the Australian-first platform screen door technology being introduced on Sydney Metro, which keeps people and objects away from tracks and allows trains to get in and out of stations much faster. The life-size train model will be tested over coming weeks with a range of people including school groups, parents with prams, the less mobile as well as emergency services and engineers.
Sydney Metro Northwest will take the feedback from future customers on board before the new trains go into full production next year – they’ll be able to have their say on internal features like seating, safety, customer information, lighting, the grab poles and hand grips as well as well as how easy it is to move through the carriage and use the multi-purpose areas.
Following customer testing, the life-size train model will go on public display so the public has the chance to get a closer look at Sydney’s new train.