Darra supplier, Knorr-Bremse, has been awarded the more than $30 million contract to deliver climate control systems for the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP).
The company says it will expand their existing service facility at Darra to produce climate control systems for the program’s 65 new six-car passenger trains.
A total of 520 units will be manufactured in Darra with works including mechanical, refrigeration and electrical assembly. The contract will create eight full-time jobs.
“Knorr-Bremse is a global market leader in railway products and is excited to have the opportunity to be part of the QTMP, supporting Australian manufacturing,” said Knorr-Bremse, Director Rail HVAC, Joe Schembri.
The air conditioning system will be equipped with the latest in fan, compressor and heat exchanger technology. This means less maintenance required for the new trains and more time in service. The system has several environmental benefits like the use of long-life air filters decreasing landfill by up to 50%.
Knorr-Bremse is a leader in on-board rail manufacturing systems such as air conditioning, doors and electronic management systems. The company is represented in 30 countries around the world, employing 450 people across Australia, and almost 30,000 people globally.
“This world leading air filtration technology will provide sterilised air inside the trains and eliminate both airborne and surface bacteria,” said Minister for Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher.
QTMP will build 65 six-car passenger trains at a purpose-built manufacturing facility at Torbanlea (draft design pictured, above) in the Fraser Coast region. As part of the program, a new rail facility will also be constructed at Ormeau, on the Gold Coast.
Downer was awarded the contract for QTMP in June 2023.
The first QTMP train is anticipated to be manufactured and begin testing by late 2026, with all trains expected to be in service by 2032.
The new, modern train fleet will provide passengers with more efficient, reliable, and accessible travel across South East Queensland.
For further information on the QTMP, visit the QTMP website.
