The Queensland Government’s Queensland Train Manufacturing Program’s (QTMP) 65 six-car passenger trains will be supplied climate control systems by Knorr-Bremse, after they were awarded a more than $30 million contract.
The company will expand their existing service facility at Darra to produce climate control systems for the new trains.
A total of 520 units will be manufactured in Darra with works including mechanical, refrigeration and electrical assembly. The contract will create eight full-time jobs for Queenslanders.
Minister for Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher said the world leading air filtration technology will provide sterilised air inside the trains and eliminate both airborne and surface bacteria.
“Train manufacturing in Queensland has a proud history and a bright future. Our $9.5 billion Queensland Train Manufacturing is delivering opportunities for local businesses and jobs for Queenslanders,” he said.
“I believe if we can make it here in Queensland, we should. That’s why we’re delivering this project. Sadly, the LNP don’t support it, they don’t support jobs, and they don’t support regional Queenslanders.
“If they get the chance, they’ll send it overseas – like they did when they were last in government. The LNP Member for Burnett called the QTMP a “road to nowhere”
The system has several environmental benefits like the use of long-life air filters decreasing landfill by up to 50 per cent.
The air conditioning system will be equipped with the latest in fan, compressor and heat exchanger technology. This means less maintenance required for the new trains and more time in service.
Knorr-Bremse, Director Rail HVAC, Joe Schembri said Knorr-Bremse is a global market leader in railway products and is excited to have the opportunity to be part of the QTMP, supporting Australian manufacturing.
Knorr-Bremse is a leader in on-board rail manufacturing systems such as air conditioning, doors and electronic management systems. The company is represented in 30 countries around the world, employing 450 people across Australia, and almost 30,000 people globally.
This package of works is part of the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program, which will support 1,300 jobs throughout the life of the project.
QTMP will build 65 six-car passenger trains at a purpose-built manufacturing facility at Torbanlea in the Fraser Coast region. As part of the program, a new rail facility will also be constructed at Ormeau, on the Gold Coast.
Downer was awarded the contract for QTMP in June 2023.
The first QTMP train is anticipated to be manufactured and begin testing by late 2026, with all trains expected to be in service by 2032.
The new, modern train fleet will provide passengers with more efficient, reliable, and accessible travel across South East Queensland.
For further information on the QTMP, visit the QTMP website.
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