Strong progress is being made on the A$2.4 billion ($1.6 billion) High Capacity Metro Trains (HCMT) project, with more than half of the 70-train order now operating.
Production, commissioning and operations are in full swing, with 38 of the bigger, better and more accessible trains now in use, a further 10 currently being commissioned, and four in production at the Newport railyards in Melbourne’s west.
Since 2020, the trains have been progressively entering revenue service on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, significantly improving passenger experience, safety, comfort and reliability.
It is expected that, by the end of the year, the Cranbourne/Pakenham corridor will be operating solely using the HCMT fleet.
Following the expected opening of the Metro Tunnel in 2025, the trains will run through to Sunbury and upon expected completion of the Melbourne Airport Rail project in 2029, will also run to Melbourne Airport.
“It’s a privilege to b