The $2.4 billion High-Capacity Metro Trains project delivered 70 purpose-built metro trains, along with two new rail maintenance facilities at Pakenham East and Calder Park. The project was delivered as a Public Private Partnership (PPP) by the Evolution Rail Consortium in partnership with the Victorian Government. The scope of works saw the 70 trains assembled locally at Newport, which commenced operations in the Melbourne Metro Tunnel, with full passenger services commencing in February. The Consortium will oversee the maintenance of the trains over a 35-year period.
The Judging Panel recognised the successful partnership between the Evolution Rail Consortium and the Victorian Government, which delivered a complex rolling stock PPP within budget. The Panel also commended the consortium’s integration of technology into the trains, including high capacity signalling compatibility, as well as solar and rooftop rainwater harvesting at the maintenance facility.