The first new G Class tram have arrived a new Maidstone Tram Depot to begin testing.
On Friday 17 October, Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams opened the new tram depot, where the first of 100 new low-floor next generation G Class trams will undergo testing.
Backed by a $1.85 billion state government investment, the new trams will undergo a series of rigorous tests at the purpose-built facility to assess the braking systems, accessibility features and overall reliability, before planned testing on the network later this year.
The G Class trams will be rolled out on routes 57, 59 and 82 and will gradually phase out the older high-floor trams.
The government said the new trams offer more space and better accessibility for up to 150 passengers – almost double the size currently operating in Melbourne’s west.
The trams feature a low floor design, with more doors and handrails, while also offering modern heating and cooling systems, and improved passenger information – with the new design developed in consultation with accessibility groups, passengers and tram drivers.
The new Maidstone Tram Depot will help maintain, clean and house the new G Class fleet.
It features rainwater collection and reuse, solar panels and recycled materials – supporting 280 local jobs during construction and ongoing maintenance to keep the trams moving.
Footscray MP Katie Hall described the arrival of trams at the new depot as an exciting milestone for the west.
