NZR EM class

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NZR EM class
NZR EM class
EM 1367 leading a southbound 4 car set. Photo by Joseph Christianson
Power type Electric Multiple Unit
Builder Ganz-Mavag, Budapest, Hungary; (electrical components were supplied by GEC traction, United Kingdom)
Build date 1982 - 1983
UIC classification Bo-Bo
Gauge 1067mm (3' 6")
Length 20.7 m
Total weight 35.9 t
Electric system 1,500v DC
Collection method Pantograph
Top speed 100km/h
Power output 400 kW / 535 hp continuous
Career New Zealand Railways, Tranz Metro
Number in class 44
Number EM: 1004 - 1528
ET: 3004 - 3528
Locale Wellington region
First run July 1982
Disposition In service

The NZR EM class is a type of electric multiple unit used in the Wellington region of New Zealand by Tranz Metro. They are in service in most parts of the Wellington suburban area except the Johnsonville Branch where they do not have running rights, although a modified member of this class was able to run on this Branch in the early 1990s. The units are only able to be used under the Wellington 1,500v DC electrification.

The total bill for the order of the class amounted to $33 million New Zealand Dollars, the largest order of rolling stock ever made in NZR history.

The introduction of the class displaced the older English Electric DM class, ED class and EW class locomotives, and spelt the end for electric locomotive-hauled passenger trains in the Wellington region.

[edit] Refurbishment

In 1996, a major refurbishment programme was begun, with the class being repainted in the Tranz Rail blue and yellow livery of Tranz Rail, new seats and interiors brightened, this project had been completed by 2002.

[edit] External links

[edit] References

  • Parsons, David - New Zealand Railway Motive Power 2002 [1]