Queensland finalises new train deal

The Queensland Government has finalised a 30-year deal for the manufacture and maintenance of a new fleet of trains.

The AUD $4.4 billion project is being delivered through a public-private partnership with a consortium comprising Bombardier, infrastructure investment group John Laing, ITOCHU Corporation and Uberior.

As well as designing and building the new six-car EMUs, Bombardier will also maintain the fleet for 30 years at a new depot being built by Laing O’Rourke.

Lutz Bertling, president and chief operating officer of Bombardier Transportation, said: “Bombardier and its partners will deliver a new generation of high-performing and environmental-friendly commuter trains for Queenslanders to meet the region’s rising demand for rail services.

“Bombardier’s fleet maintenance will ensure that the new trains provide superior performance for the next 30 years, enabling Queensland Rail to continue to deliver reliable and cost-effective services for passengers enjoying a new standard of travelling environment.”

The new trains will be designed in Australia but manufactured at Bombardier’s facility in Savli, India.

Anthony Phillips, John Laing’s head of primary investments, Asia Pacific, said: “This is a significant achievement for John Laing, not only because it builds upon our previous success in our key regional markets of Australia and New Zealand but also because financial close has been achieved in such a short space of time.

“Alongside our partners within the Bombardier consortium, we are looking forward to working with the Queensland Government to deliver new, sustainable rail services to commuters in South East Queensland.”




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