NZR EM class (Electric Multiple Unit)
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| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 electrically hauled passenger trains in the Wellington region.
In 1998, 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.
[edit] External links
[edit] References
- Parsons, David - New Zealand Railway Motive Power 2002 [1]
