KiwiRail’s “AK” passenger carriage

In 2009 n 2012 KiwiRailrs Mechanical Design team designed, developed and had built 16 sophisticated passenger cars for use on Tranz Scenicrs two premier tourist services. Features of the project included: - 12 x 63-seater cars and 4 x 10 -seater cafe cars - 4 x generator & viewing cars and 3 x luggage cars (modified ex-guards vans) - First passenger car to be designed & built in NZ for 73 years - Completely new monocoque body designed and analysed in house - Design against bespoke local design and compliance standards adapted from international practice and the setting of high standards for safety related elements. - Extensive quantified structural, static and dynamic compliance testing of components and the complete carriage - Application of risk screening techniques and close consultation with the rail union - Maximised local content including locally developed PIDS, power doors, HVAC, linings, seats and glazing - The development of a completely new rubber/air sprung bogie - Project Management challenges resulting from the need for concurrent definition, design and manufacture and the scale of the project relative to the limited resources available. The resulting car set high standards for ride, quietness and, most importantly, passenger appeal.