The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has collaborated with King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) to research and develop a prototype of a luxury 25-seater rail carriage according to the Transport Ministry’s Thai First Policy.
Mr. Siripong Pruitthiphan, Deputy Governor of SRT, announced the specification of the train that is being prepared for production. It is modelled after in-flight service with both first class and business class to be available. He further detailed that the car will have a total of 25 seats, compromised of 8 “super luxury” seats, similar to first-class seats on aircraft, and 17 “luxury” seats, which are akin to business class.
The rail cars are to be produced in the country and will save up to 30% of the cost when compared to similar imported rail cars. It was reported that 40% of materials used in building this prototype were locally sourced, thereby helping to achieve a local cost advantage.
The project was reported to be jointly funded by the Programme Management Unit for Competitiveness, and also from Sinogen-Pin Petch Joint Venture Co.
This optimistic upgrade in rail carriage quality could be considered timely as parts of the Thailand rail system are being upgraded to dual track throughout the network including south to Hua Hin and further. Overall these track upgrades aim to achieve faster travel times throughout the network.
New rolling stock made in China was recently deployed a few years ago in some of the longer routes throughout Thailand. This recent luxury carriage development may see the public give greater consideration to the option of timely train travel when combining the potential for upgraded rolling stock and the expanded track network.
The preliminary prototype testing is expected to be completed by 2023 before further track testing for at least half a year. It is expected to enter into service at the end of 2023.
Author: Editorial Staff
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