Battery-powered trains for South Auckland?

Seventeen battery-powered commuter trains could soon be in use between Papakura and Pukekohe.

The trains, which would cost $207 million, would replace diesel engines that currently run between the two stations, the NZ Herald reports.

It would mean the trains could run directly from Britomart to Pukekohe, eliminating the need for passengers to transfer to one of the diesel engines at Papakura.

Auckland mayor Phil Goff backs the purchase.

“New electric and battery powered trains will have major benefits for commuters living south of Papakura in the high growth areas of Drury, Paerata, Pukekohe and potentially Pokeno.

“The purchase of the new units which can operate on lines not yet electrified allows us to eliminate ageing, less reliable diesel trains currently used on the Pukekohe line.”
The batteries would be in use from Papakura to Pukekohe, then recharge after reaching the electric line.

Auckland councillors will consider buying the trains at next Wednesday’s finance committee, the NZ Herald reports.

It will only go ahead if the NZ Transport Agency agrees to pay 50% of the cost, alongside Auckland Transport.