Recommendation Date
Recipient Name
KiwiRail
Text
On 25 October 2023, the Commission recommended that KiwiRail integrates fully with the technology on the Auckland Metro network, to ensure the safe operation of rail within a complex system.
Reply Text
The Commission recommended that KiwiRail integrates fully with the technology on the Auckland Metro Network to ensure the safe operation of rail within a complex system
This recommendation is accepted.
Retro-fitting of ETCS to locomotives is a significant task with limited available space and the safety critical nature of the ETCS equipment. A specific design is required for each new class fitted followed by prototype fitment, testing for safety assurance and then individual vehicle fitout and assurance testing. The cost and timeframe associated with this process is significant. Accordingly many factors need to be taken into consideration with respect to retro fitting of old locomotives. These include:
• KiwiRail is currently installing ETCS to 53 DL class locomotives. First prototype is expected to be delivered in 2024
• All new locomotives purchased for mainline running on the KiwiRail network are designed to be ETCS ready
• Any new locomotives intended for mainline running in the Auckland suburban area will be fitted with ETCS at factory – currently this includes the fitment of 20 DM class locomotives destined for North Island operations
• DC and DH classes will be retired over the next five or so years. We are now primarily using DL’s on the Port duty (which will be fitted with ETCS) and will be transferring DSG’s into Auckland for the Westfield local shunts (Penrose / Sylvia Park etc.) We still have to work through a strategy of ETCS but it has been discussed in relation to the class.
This recommendation is accepted.
Retro-fitting of ETCS to locomotives is a significant task with limited available space and the safety critical nature of the ETCS equipment. A specific design is required for each new class fitted followed by prototype fitment, testing for safety assurance and then individual vehicle fitout and assurance testing. The cost and timeframe associated with this process is significant. Accordingly many factors need to be taken into consideration with respect to retro fitting of old locomotives. These include:
• KiwiRail is currently installing ETCS to 53 DL class locomotives. First prototype is expected to be delivered in 2024
• All new locomotives purchased for mainline running on the KiwiRail network are designed to be ETCS ready
• Any new locomotives intended for mainline running in the Auckland suburban area will be fitted with ETCS at factory – currently this includes the fitment of 20 DM class locomotives destined for North Island operations
• DC and DH classes will be retired over the next five or so years. We are now primarily using DL’s on the Port duty (which will be fitted with ETCS) and will be transferring DSG’s into Auckland for the Westfield local shunts (Penrose / Sylvia Park etc.) We still have to work through a strategy of ETCS but it has been discussed in relation to the class.
Related Investigation(s)