The new G Class trams launched on Melbourne’s public transport network for the first time today. The first tram left Essendon Depot at 8:30am this morning, marking the start of services for Melbourne’s first new tram design in over a decade. Running across Melbourne’s north-west, the G Class fleet is larger and more comfortable, capable of carrying almost twice as many passengers than the oldest trams in Melbourne’s west. The fleet will first run on Route 59 from the CBD to Airport West, Route 57 from the CBD to West Maribyrnong and Route 82 from Footscray to Moonee Ponds. After that, it will eventually expand to Routes 12, 48 and 58.
G Class trams
The Victorian Government has committed $1.85 billion to produce 100 of these G Class trams, as well as the new Maidstone Tram Depot, which opened late last year. These shiny new trams will replace the older Z and A Class trams.
The G Class trams are 25 metres long, and can hold up to 150 passengers, with an accessible low-floor design for level boarding, making travelling easier for those with disabilities and those using prams. There’s also more doors, handrails and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and mobility aids. The trams come with modern cooling and heating, and improvements to passenger information displays. The new design was developed in consultation with accessibility groups, passengers and tram drivers.
The trams were built locally at the Alstrom facility in Dandenong. They will be housed in the Maidstone Tram Depot, which will use rainwater collection, solar panels and recycled materials to maintain and clean the fleet.
Keen to try it out? You can see where the tram routes go here, or plan your journey here.
