Geelong to benefit from new VLocity trains as manufacturing begins

MANUFACTURING has commenced on Victoria’s latest fleet of VLocity trains, aimed at enhancing the capacity and reliability of the state’s regional rail network, notably within the Geelong and Bacchus Marsh corridors.

With travel numbers nearing pre-2019 levels, the addition of these trains comes at a crucial time to accommodate the rising demand.

The regional network has seen a significant surge in usage, with a 28 per cent increase for the year ending 31 December 2023, reaching 97 per cent of the 2019 calendar year patronage.

Minister for Public and Active Transport Gabrielle Williams recently visited Alstom’s Dandenong factory, where 23 new VLocity trains are being constructed.

“We’re delivering record investments in public transport, supporting local manufacturing jobs right here in Dandenong, while making our transport network more reliable and more affordable for regional Victorians,” Ms Williams said.

“The new, bigger VLocity trains will support growing communities in the west, carrying more passengers and delivering more reliable services.”

Designed with modern standards in mind, the new VLocity trains aim to enhance accessibility, reduce carbon emissions, and offer six spaces for wheelchair or mobility scooter users in each three-carriage set, along with dedicated bicycle storage areas.

These trains are part of a significant $601 million investment by the Victorian government in the Victorian Budget for VLocity trains.

Additionally, an extra $219 million has been allocated to fund about 200 additional V/Line train services on weekends.