Following the delivery of the first vehicles, Melbourne’s new G Class trams (as previously reported HERE) have entered an intensive testing and commissioning programme. Extensive trial running across the network, together with training for drivers and maintenance staff, is intended to pave the way for the introduction of regular passenger services. The first passenger-carrying operations are expected to commence in the coming months.
The State of Victoria has ordered a total of 100 vehicles, which are being manufactured by Alstom at its Dandenong facility near Melbourne. With approximately 65 per cent local content, the programme represents one of Australia’s most significant rolling stock projects. At the same time, a new depot is being constructed at Maidstone, purpose-built to support the operation and maintenance of the G Class fleet.
The G Class is based on Alstom’s proven Flexity 2 platform but has been extensively adapted to meet the specific requirements of Melbourne’s tram network. The three-section, fully low-floor vehicles are approximately 25 metres long and can accommodate up to 150 passengers, including 48 seated. Four wide double-leaf doorways provide rapid passenger boarding and alighting while ensuring step-free access for wheelchair users, passengers with pushchairs and those with reduced mobility. Power is provided by four traction motors with a combined output of 420 kW, enabling a maximum operating speed of 80 km/h. The electrical equipment is complemented by an on-board energy storage system that recovers braking energy, helping to reduce overall energy consumption.
The current test programme is designed to verify all vehicle functions under real operating conditions. In addition to technical certification, particular attention is being paid to vehicle software, infrastructure compatibility and operational reliability. At the same time, operating and maintenance staff are undergoing training ahead of the fleet’s entry into passenger service. The new trams will be based at the purpose-built Maidstone Depot, located on Route 82.
The introduction of the G Class will also mark the beginning of the replacement of Melbourne’s oldest tram fleets. The new vehicles will progressively replace the high-floor Z Class, built in three batches between 1975 and 1984, and the A Class, delivered between 1984 and 1987. Both fleets feature step entrances throughout and no longer meet modern expectations for accessibility, energy efficiency or passenger comfort.
The first G Class trams are scheduled to enter service initially on routes 57, 59 and 82 in Melbourne’s western suburbs, before being introduced on routes 12, 48 and 58. Their arrival will provide fully accessible tram services on these routes for the first time. As all 100 vehicles are delivered over the coming years, the continous modernisation of Melbourne’s tram network—the largest in the world—is set to gather significant momentum.
Note:
The first G Class tram started passenger service on 30 July 2026 (as per Alstom press release).
