Hon Ken Travers asks about the planned lifespan, reviews, and future of the A-series rail car fleet. The Minister for Transport provides details on reviews conducted, costs, and future plans, including replacement and potential limited continued use.

AnsweredQoN 2930Legislative Council
Asked
24 March 2015
Portfolio
Transport

QuestionView source ↗

(1) What was the planned economic life of the A-series rail car fleet when they were purchased? (2) Has the Public Transport Authority undertaken any reviews on the options for the long term future for A-series EMU rail car fleet? (3) If yes to (2): (a) what was the outcome of the review; (b) who conducted the review; (c) how much did the review cost; and (d) when was the review completed? (4) Will the Minister table a copy of any reviews undertaken? (5) If no to (4), why not? (6) What did the review consider was the optimum future of the A-series rail car? (7) Has the Government considered the review? (8) When does the Government expect the A-Series trains will reach their end of service life? (9) At the end of their service life, does the Government expect the A-Series rail cars will be: (a) replaced with new rail cars; (b) continue with existing technology with minor enhancements; (c) re-engineered; and (d) other option, please specify? (10) If they will be re-engineered, where does the Government expect this will occur?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
12 May 2015
Responded by
Parliamentary Secretary representing the Minister for Transport
Response time
49 days
(1) A minimum fatigue life of 30 years was specified in the Technical Specification.
(2) Yes.
(3)(a) The reviews concluded that options may exist to extend the life of the "A" series fleet.
(b) Interfleet and separately, AECOM.
(c) $113 442 and $277 364.15 respectively.
(d) In 2010 and 2013 respectively.
(4) Yes. [see tabled paper no. ]
(5) Not applicable
(6) The results were inconclusive at the time due to the unknown condition of the railcar bodyshell.
(7) Yes.
(8) The "A" series will reach the end of their service life depending upon condition of the railcar bodyshell.
(9)(a) Yes.
(b)-(c) No.
(d) A smaller number of cars may be maintained for capacity in peak hours and special events, the majority of railcars will be retired.
(10) "A" series railcars will not be re-engineered.

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