201410 – Gardiner – Auckland EMU – Design, Build and Testing

Auckland’s new Electric Multiple Units (EMUs) are supplied by Spanish manufacturer Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (CAF). They are high specification modern suburban trains that conform to, or exceed, best international and local NZ practice. They blend latest technology, proven and mature systems, with packaging and features uniquely optimised for Auckland operations. Safety and accessibility is at the forefront of current suburban operating practice as appropriate for NZ.

The new EMUs will make a significant impression on Auckland public transport with quiet, smooth, rapid performance and stylish features that only a modern electric train can provide. Key objectives are to ensure passengers are safe, comfortable and well informed, in rolling stock that delivers significant operating and maintenance cost savings.

The following commentary details the demanding NZ environment, key objectives, the derivation of the basic train configuration, an overview of the testing and manufacturing facilities, concluded by a customer based walk-through of a unit.