Largest METRONET contract signed to deliver 246 railcars

Perth’s largest ever railcar contract has officially been signed between Alstom and the state government.

Over the next 10 years, Alstom will deliver 246 new-generation C-series railcars. 102 railcars will be for METRONET projects and 144 will replace the ageing A-series rail cars, six will also be used to replace the Australind.

Alstom has confirmed it will reach a local content level of 50 per cent, returning local train manufacturing to WA. This was a key target set by the government in the tender process.

The new six-car trains will carry around 1,200 passengers and have an operational life of 35 years.

The new railcars will be built at an assembly facility in Bellevue. Tender submissions for its construction are currently being assessed.

Several contracts have already been awarded to local companies including an $850,000 contract to supply 4 cranes, the biggest of which will lift 25 tonnes. This was recently awarded to Bassendean manufacturer Eilbeck.

Another $3.8 million contract to deliver lifting jacks, a bogie press and bogie turntables has been awarded to Cockburn company Vector Lifting.

Features of the new railcars will include a combination of seating styles with every door on the train fully accessible, wider passenger doors, USB charging points, regenerative braking and the floors will be hard-wearing as opposed to carpet.

The first of the C-series trains will be delivered in 2022, in time to service the Yanchep Rail Extension and Thornlie-Cockburn Link. The Australind railcars will also be prioritised for delivery.