TfNSW is retiring its fleet of Variotram Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) from the Sydney light rail network to make way for the progressive introduction of new vehicles in the first six months of 2015.

The Variotram Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) were manufactured in 1996 and the original fleet of seven (7) vehicles was introduced in Sydney in 1997 with the opening of the Sydney light rail system. Six (6) of the original fleet continue to operate in revenue service, however with the introduction of new LRVs onto the network, and current stabling constraints, there is a need to retire the fleet of Variotrams. Since introduction to the Sydney light rail network in 1997 these vehicles have operated reliably in revenue service.

The Variotrams have an overall length of 29m, width of 2.65m and a cab at each end to allow bidirectional travel. The capacity of each tram is 217 passengers, including 74-seated passengers. The vehicle has a low floor access level of 290mm above the rail. The vehicles can achieve a maximum acceleration of 1.2 m/s2, maximum speed of 80 km/hr and are capable of travelling up a maximum gradient of 6%. The articulated design allows for a wide body vehicle without over swing on curves and their air conditioning equipment has been designed specifically for the Sydney climate. The Variotrams operate on standard gauge rail and use 750-volt direct current electricity.

Further information about the Variotram vehicles is available to respondents who register an interest in the sale of these vehicles, however any prospective buyer must rely upon their own due diligence assessments regarding the condition and workability of these assets if they proceed to a formal offer to purchase the fleet.