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Render of the CR151 train awarded to CRRC Qingdao Sifang. Source: LTA |
Today, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced the award of contract CR151 for 44 train sets to CRRC Qingdao Sifang. The contract also includes an option to purchase 11 further train sets. Initially formed of 6 carriages, the trains can be further lengthened to 8 carriages in the future. Here are some of the features unique to the Cross Island Line (CRL) trains:
- Starting capacity with 6-cars per train set
- Future scalability to 8-cars per train set
- Powered via an overhead catenary rail (OCR) - essentially a third rail but affixed to the tunnel roof and capable of transmitting higher voltage
- Wider carriage-to-carriage gangways than available on currently existing trains at 1.6m instead of 1.4m
We had previously posted an image from a presentation showing the large diameter single bored tunnel which showed the inclusion of OCR support equipment within the tunnel. In addition, early renders of the Changi East depot also showed the presence of OCR masts within the depot area.