The Victorian Government has announced that production of new X’Trapolis 2.0 trains has begun in Ballarat, supporting up to 150 direct jobs and 750 more across the supply chain.
Victorian Minister for Public and Active Transport, Gabrielle Williams, made the announcement that the regional workforce are now assembling and fitting out 25 new X’Trapolis 2.0 trains, as part of a $986 million State Government investment.
Work on the X’Trapolis 2.0 trains will continue to ramp-up in coming months, as more trains move through the upgraded facility in Ballarat.
The project has also helped to transform Alstom’s Ballarat factory, which is now home to world-class and specialised equipment to deliver the new trains.
This project includes a 60 per cent local content quota, providing widespread economic benefits to the Ballarat region.
The new trains will gradually replace Melbourne’s longest-serving Comeng trains on the Craigieburn, Upfield, and Frankston lines – providing passengers with a more accessible, reliable and energy efficient journey.
Mr Williams said that through its investments in next-generation trains the government is delivering better journeys for passengers – as well as supporting hundreds of local jobs in Ballarat.
Managing Director of Alstom Australia and New Zealand, Pascal Dupond, said, “X’Trapolis 2.0 is the result of global expertise, local knowhow and a wonderful partnership with the Victorian Government.”
