Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance today went for their first test ride on one of the next-generation fleet of intercity trains.
Premier Berejiklian says the New Intercity Fleet will offer unprecedented levels of comfort, convenience and reliability for passengers.
"These trains of the future are now one step closer with testing continuing and the first trains expected to enter service in the coming months," Ms Berejiklian said.
"An important part of this new fleet was making sure we listen to what longer distance customers want.
"We're also pleased to announce today that the state's New Intercity Fleet is being named "Mariyung", the Darug word for Emu, in acknowledgment of local Aboriginal culture, with the artwork for the train's exterior designed by Darug woman, Leanne Mulgo Watson."
Mr Constance said 12 trains in the Mariyung fleet are now in the final stages of testing all the mechanical, electrical and technology systems, and the interfaces with the rail network like overhead wiring, signalling and track infrastructure.
"The new fleet has advanced technology not available on existing intercity trains, including eight internal and four external CCTV cameras in every carriage. It also has on-board help points and significantly improved accessibility for commuters using wheelchairs, prams or with other mobility constraints," Mr Constance said.
"The proposed operations model has been examined by an independent international expert, in two separate safety reviews, which found it will be safer than current practice and safer than other models currently used around the world."
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said rolling out 55 new 10-car trains to Lithgow, the Central Coast, Newcastle and South Coast built upon the NSW Government's vision to help make public transport a first-choice option for people living in the regions.
"The naming of this new fleet brings us a step closer to rolling out these new services, which is an exciting development for the thousands of customers who travel between the city and these areas every day," Mr Toole said.
"Boosts to our public transport offering like this show we're committed to building a safer, stronger regional NSW."
A date for the train to enter service will be determined once staff training and operational readiness activities have been completed in the coming months.
