First Auckland EMU to enter service in April 2014

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The first of Auckland’s new electric train fleet is set to start service in April next year.

During a ceremony to unveil the new train last week, EMU project director Tom Salt said passengers would see the first of 57 new electric trains arrive on the network in April or May next year.

The first CAF electric multiple unit (EMU) was revealed to the public last week at the city’s Wiri depot, where it has been undergoing testing since arriving in the country on August 24.

The electrification of Auckland’s commuter network began in 2011.

Electric trains will eventually replace all of Auckland’s DMUs and in preparation for the switch, officials have been warning  Aucklanders about some of the dangers.

Terry Scott, managing director of Auckland Transport’s train operator, Transdev, said: “As we introduce electric trains into the system along with accompanying electric wiring, it is important amongst the excitement to remind Aucklanders to watch out as these trains are quieter and can accelerate significantly faster than the old diesel trains. If you get too close to the wiring, there will be no second chance.”

The new EMUs will increase capacity on the network by 40 per cent compared to the current diesel fleet.

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