Trial run for faster, longer V/Line trains

NEW nine-carriage VLocity trains have been tested along the Geelong line.

A V/Line spokesman yesterday confirmed it had tested the bigger, faster trains between Wyndham Vale and Southern Cross stations earlier this month.

And it is understood there were no major problems or faults with the test.

The trial run focused on how a nine-carriage train would work with existing track, signalling and station infrastructure.

Passenger amenities and communications equipment such as emergency buttons were also assessed.

Platforms along the line in Melbourne’s west, including Wyndham Vale and neighbouring Tarneit, are already designed to deal with the larger locomotives.

Previous manufacturer testing confirmed VLocity trains — which seat more than 600 passengers — were capable of running nine carriages.

“V/Line operates one of Australia’s fastest growing railways. We’re constantly investigating new ways to keep Victorians more connected,” a V/Line spokesman said.

“We’ll collate data from the test and analyse it before making decisions around any further testing.”

The test was held on a Sunday to avoid disrupting commuter services.

It comes amid ongoing debate about the future and look of Geelong high-speed rail and train station upgrades.

Construction of the second platform at Waurn Ponds station, part of the $160 million Geelong line upgrade, is due to be completed in 18 months.

Upgrades will add a second track, sealed carparking, pedestrian overpass and lifts and ramps to connect the platforms.

It’s expected the project will pave the way for more Geelong line services in the future.