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Aussie city Newcastle to become first to implement wire-free light rail network

Xinhua, April 18, 2017 Adjust font size:

Australian city of Newcastle, 200 km north of Sydney, will become the first place in Australia to implement a wire-free light rail network, it was announced Tuesday.

To replace the overhead wire system, train carriages will be fitted with onboard energy storage units which will power the network.

"Removing the overhead wires will preserve the aesthetics of Newcastle's heritage architecture and its unique character as light rail breathes new life into the city centre," New South Wales Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said in a statement.

"This is a game changer for the urban amenity and sustainability of Newcastle light rail, which has been the impetus for the complete revitalization of the city."

Expected to be in operation by mid 2017, the project aims to rejuvenate the city and its 1 million residents by creating more space for outdoor dining areas, trees and activity precincts.

"Implementing world class light rail technology aligns with our plans for Newcastle to become a major university town and a city known for cutting-edge research and innovation," Constance said. Enditem