The NSW government has signed contracts to design, build, finance and maintain the new regional rail fleet, which includes some trains that will run in the Hunter.
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The $2.8 billion project to replace existing XPT, XPLORER and Endeavour trains has been signed with Momentum Trains, lead by Spanish company CAF which built Newcastle's light rail fleet.
Regional NSW Minister John Barilaro said the new rail fleet would comprise 117 new carriages to form 10 regional intercity trains, 10 long regional trains and nine short regional trains.
“This is a new era for regional rail in NSW,” he said.
“One of the most exciting transformations of passenger rail in NSW for decades, improving how people travel in regional NSW."
The existing Endeavour trains that run on the Hunter Line are in line for replacement by the new fleet.
XPT trains, which run through the Hunter to the North Coast, will also be replaced.
Transport Minister Andrew Constance said improvements would be made to the passenger experience.
“For trips on the regional network, we’ll be introducing new economy and premium classes," he said.
“Trains for longer regional journeys will also feature buffet cars and will be more comfortable for those who require wheelchair access.
"Economy class will have a two by two seating layout while premium class will feature an increased number of seats, set in a two by one layout."
A new maintenance facility will be built in Dubbo as part of the contract.
The trains will be progressively introduced from 2023.
“The trains will be powered by engines which produce fewer emissions than the current fleet, reducing the impacts on air quality,” Mr Constance said.