XPLORER

CountryLink's XPLORER trains have been taking people to some of the most scenic places in NSW since 1993. From Sydney, the XPLORERs links Armidale, Moree, Griffith, Broken Hill and the national capital, Canberra.

Built in Victoria by ABB Transportation, the XPLORER uses technology proven in both Australian and European rail services. It's quiet, fully air conditioned and environmentally friendly and can run as two, three, five or larger carriage sets as demand requires.

Unlike CountryLink's XPT where all electrical and tractive power is provided by the first and last carriages, each XPLORER carriage is fitted with independent traction and auxiliary engines which work in unison and are controlled by the driver. The engines are KTA-19-R 375 kW, 19 litre turbo-charged made by Cummins. Each XPLORER carriage can carry 1600 litres of fuel, enough for a 1600km trip.

XPT's and XPLORERs are serviced and washed at a special centre in Sydenham where necessary maintenance is carried out. The service centre recycles rinse water as wash water which is then discharged with all other run off through a treatment plant before being used again.

Buffet and saloon - first class motor carriage

Number in service: 8
Weight: 58 tonnes
Length: 25.2 metres
Seating capacity: 42

Saloon - economy class motor carriage

Number in service: 7
Weight: 58 tonnes
Length: 24.7 metres
Seating capacity: 66

Saloon - economy class motor carriage

Number in service: 8
Weight: 57 tonnes
Length: 25.2 metres
Seating capacity: 48 plus one wheelchair space (disabled toilet also in this carriage)

Note: while lengths differ, each XPLORER carriage is 2.9 metres wide and 4.2 metres high.