Electric Tilt Train
| Electric Tilt Train | |
|---|---|
The newly refurbished "City of Rockhampton"
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| 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, Gracemere |
| Line(s) served | North Coast |
| Specifications | |
| Maximum speed |
Service: 160 km/h (99 mph), Record: 210 km/h (130 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 identical high-speed tilting trains operated by Queensland Rail on the North Coast line from Brisbane to Bundaberg and Rockhampton.
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.
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. In July 1999 a second daily service was introduced between Brisbane and Bundaberg.
Using traction equipment based on the JR Shikoku 8000 series trains, the Tilt Train set an Australian train speed record of 210 km/h (130 mph) north of Bundaberg in May 1999, a record that still stands. This also makes it the fastest narrow-gauge train in the world.
In 2006 the electric sets underwent an $8.3 million refurbishment program at Mayne depot.
These tilt train sets are undertaking refurbishment over the course of 12 months 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 re-entered service in July 2016.The second refurbished set re-entered service in July 2017.
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Wikipedia