V/Line VLocity#Wheel wear restrictions

To honour a commitment made when it was awarded the V/Line franchise, National Express requested tenders in early 2000 for 29 two-carriage diesel multiple unit trains. The order, which coincided with the Regional Fast Rail project then being undertaken by the state government, was awarded to Adtranz's Dandenong rolling stock factory in mid-November with a value of {{currency|410 million|AUD}}.{{cite news|title=Bracks invests|url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/bracks-invests.html|access-date=12 January 2018|work=Railway Gazette|date=1 April 2000|language=en|archive-date=13 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180113123405/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/bracks-invests.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Victorian rolling stock contracts announced|work=Railway Digest|date=May 2000|page=20}}{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=275}}{{cite web|title=Annual Report 2001|url=http://nexgroup.blob.core.windows.net/media/1172/094525-ar2001.pdf#page28|publisher=National Express Group|access-date=20 November 2017|page=27|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201033339/http://nexgroup.blob.core.windows.net/media/1172/094525-ar2001.pdf#page28|url-status=live}} The contract was extended to 38 two-car units and an initial fifteen-year maintenance contract.{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=275}}{{cite news|title=Fast Rail bids|work=Railway Gazette International|date=December 2002|page=727}} By the time the first was delivered, the V/Line franchise had reverted to the state government, and Adtranz had been taken over by Bombardier Transportation.{{cite news|last1=Osborne|first1=Alistair|title=National Express walks out of Australian rail service|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2836793/National-Express-walks-out-of-Australian-rail-service.html|work=The Telegraph|access-date=12 January 2018|date=17 December 2002|archive-date=12 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180112160218/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2836793/National-Express-walks-out-of-Australian-rail-service.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Bombardier agrees to buy Adtranz|work=Railway Gazette International|date=September 2001|page=601}}

The design was an evolution of the Xplorer/Endeavour railcars.{{cite web|title=VLocity Cars for V/Line Passenger Rail|url=http://rtsa.com.au/assets/2008/03/rtsa-sa-nl-jul-2007.pdf|website=South Australian Chapter Newsletter 7/2007|publisher=Railway Technical Society of Australasia|access-date=20 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080721021556/http://rtsa.com.au/assets/2008/03/rtsa-sa-nl-jul-2007.pdf|archive-date=21 July 2008|page=6|date=July 2007}} Although Bombardier originally intended to use the same body shell design as the Endeavour, difficulties with the aerodynamic drag characteristics of this shape for the intended {{convert|160|km/h|mph||abbr=on}} operational speed of the VLocity led to a complete redesign of the train body.{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=276}} Ultimately, the VLocity was designed concurrently with the B series being developed for Transperth as an electric multiple unit, resulting in a number of shared design elements.{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=278}}

The original plan was for the 29 sets to be fitted with 2+3 seating, for a total capacity of 173 passengers per two-carriage set. However, in February 2003, that was changed to 144 seats in a 2+2 formation.{{cite web|title=New fast trains to get four-across seating for greater comfort|url=http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/798c8b072d117a01ca256c8c0019bb01/9f615152ebe651b1ca256cd900018a0b?OpenDocument|website=Office of the Premier|publisher=Department of Premier and Cabiney|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050724130141/http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/798c8b072d117a01ca256c8c0019bb01/9f615152ebe651b1ca256cd900018a0b?OpenDocument|archive-date=24 July 2005|date=21 February 2003}}

In 2003, it was announced that the units would be built in Bombardier's Dandenong factory, with the bogies to be constructed at Bombardier's Derby Litchurch Lane Works in England, and the control system to be supplied by Bombardier's plant in Västerås, Sweden.{{cite journal|last1=Hammond|first1=Ian|title=Regional passenger revival underway|journal=International Railway Journal|date=July 2003|volume=43|issue=7|pages=22–23|url=http://go.galegroup.com/ps/i.do?p=ITOF&sw=w&v=2.1&id=GALE%7CA105642896&it=r&asid=cbc7d78c8e7b0c85fb795592f4b74f97|access-date=17 November 2017|via=Gale General OneFile|archive-date=1 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701115102/https://go.gale.com/ps/i.do?p=ITOF&sw=w&v=2.1&id=GALE%7CA105642896&it=r&asid=cbc7d78c8e7b0c85fb795592f4b74f97&userGroupName=nm_p_oweb&isGeoAuthType=true|url-status=live}} The first unit was completed in July 2004,{{cite news|title=V/Line gets new regional trains|work=International Railway Journal|date=July 2004|page=3}} and testing began shortly after. The trains were tested at {{convert|160|km/h|mph||abbr=on}} for the first time on 17 September, when Premier Steve Bracks joined a test run along a {{cvt|30|km|mi}} route from Warragul to Moe.{{cite news |title=Australian State of Victoria Tests First Very Fast Train |work=AsiaPulse News |date=17 September 2004}}

Safety improvements were suggested at various stages in the development of the VLocity and, following the Waterfall accident in New South Wales, in which a train derailed when travelling too fast around a curve, and the Cairns Tilt Train derailment in Queensland, which occurred in similar circumstances, the State Government announced in December 2004 that the Train Protection & Warning System (TPWS) would be installed on Regional Fast Rail lines and the VLocity trains.{{cite news|title=Fast rail in $200m blowout|url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Fast-rail-in-200m-blowout/2004/12/14/1102787062830.html|access-date=27 November 2017|work=The Age|agency=Australian Associated Press|date=14 December 2004|language=en|archive-date=14 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614085805/http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Fast-rail-in-200m-blowout/2004/12/14/1102787062830.html|url-status=live}} In August 2005, the State Government commissioned an investigation into the fitting of seat belts on the trains, although the concept was considered potentially expensive and technically challenging.{{cite news|last1=Silkstone|first1=Dan|title=Seatbelts mooted for rural trains|url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/seatbelts-mooted-for-rural-trains/2005/08/24/1124562921636.html|access-date=27 November 2017|work=The Age|date=25 August 2005|language=en|archive-date=13 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121113005123/http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/seatbelts-mooted-for-rural-trains/2005/08/24/1124562921636.html|url-status=live}}

Testing revealed noise levels were too high in the cabin,{{cite news|last1=Silkstone|first1=Dan|url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/fast-trains-strike-costly-sound-hitch/2005/10/10/1128796469419.html|title=Fast trains strike costly sound hitch|date=11 October 2005|work=The Age|access-date=25 April 2006|archive-date=14 December 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051214125831/http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/fast-trains-strike-costly-sound-hitch/2005/10/10/1128796469419.html|url-status=live}} delaying the introduction of the trains into service while the completed sets were modified.

File:Vlocity interior.jpg

The VLocity was introduced into service on the Ballarat line on 22 December 2005, with Bracks and Transport Minister Peter Batchelor travelling on the inaugural service from Southern Cross station. An unveiling ceremony was held at Ballarat and the train returned as a regular service.{{cite news|title=First high-speed trains service starts|url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/first-highspeed-trains-rolled-out/2005/12/22/1135032115149.html|access-date=27 November 2017|work=The Age|agency=Australian Associated Press|date=22 December 2005|language=en|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201030915/http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/first-highspeed-trains-rolled-out/2005/12/22/1135032115149.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Our new V/Locity trains ready to go from today|url=http://www.thecourier.com.au/story/588312/our-new-vlocity-trains-ready-to-go-from-today/|access-date=26 December 2017|work=The Courier|date=21 December 2005|location=Ballarat|language=en|archive-date=26 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171226234419/http://www.thecourier.com.au/story/588312/our-new-vlocity-trains-ready-to-go-from-today/|url-status=live}} Services on the Geelong and Bendigo lines followed on 3 February 2006{{cite news|title=V/Locity trains roll at last|work=Dandenong Independent|date=8 February 2006|page=7}} and 24 February 2006{{cite news|title=VLocity trains begin service|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2006-02-24/vlocity-trains-begin-service/805326|access-date=26 December 2017|work=ABC News|date=24 February 2006|language=en-AU|archive-date=28 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161028161456/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2006-02-24/vlocity-trains-begin-service/805326|url-status=live}} respectively. Services to Traralgon and Seymour were introduced in September 2006. A timetable allowing the VLocity to operate at its 160km/h designed top speed was introduced on 3 September, despite allegations by the State Opposition of ongoing problems with the TPWS.{{cite news|title=Fast trains hit top gear|url=http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/fast-trains-hit-top-gear/2006/09/03/1157221997982.html|access-date=27 November 2017|work=The Age|agency=Australian Associated Press|date=3 September 2006|language=en|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201120327/http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/fast-trains-hit-top-gear/2006/09/03/1157221997982.html|url-status=live}} In addition, the Ararat and Echuca services are operated by VLocitys. From 2010, one Ballarat line service each day was extended to Maryborough.{{cite web|url=http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/minister-for-public-transport/more-regional-trains-and-return-of-passenger-services-to-maryborough.html|title=More Regional Trains & Return of Passenger Services to Maryborough|work=Media Release from the Premier of Victoria|date=8 December 2008|publisher=Department of Premier and Cabinet|access-date=8 December 2008}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}

In 2005, the VLocity received an Australian Design Award, the first rail vehicle to do so, as well as an accolade from Engineers Australia.{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=278}}

On 10 November 2008, seven-carriage-long VLocity trains (2 x 2-carriage + 1 x 3-carriage sets) commenced regular operation on peak-hour Geelong line services. Previously, the longest trains had been six carriages long (3 x 2-carriage sets).{{cite web|url=http://www.vline.com.au/media/news/MediaReleases/SupersizedtrainsforGeelongtoeasethesqueeze/Article.aspx|title=Super-Sized Trains for Geelong to Ease the Squeeze|work=Media Release from the Minister for Public Transport|date=7 November 2008|publisher=V/Line|access-date=5 July 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} With the introduction of fixed 3-carriage sets it was no longer possible to run 7-carriage trains but, in June 2022, a limited number of 9-carriage trains began running between Melbourne and Wyndham Vale during peak times. There are plans to also run 9 car services to Melton until the Metro network is extended to Melton when the line from Sunshine to Melton is eventually electrified.

File:V-Line VLocity fleet size and orders.png

After the initial order of 38 units, a further two VLocity units were later ordered to bring the total to 40, along with 22 new intermediate trailers to be inserted in the middle of existing VLocity sets. The first 14 were promised during the 2006 State Election,{{cite web|url=http://www.alpvictoria.com/alp/pdf/policies/Provincial_Victoria.pdf|title=Provincial Victoria: Moving Forward - Not Back|access-date=11 November 2006|pages=8|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928071845/http://www.alpvictoria.com/alp/pdf/policies/Provincial_Victoria.pdf|archive-date=28 September 2007|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}} and the order was placed in December the same year.{{cite web|url=http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/798c8b072d117a01ca256c8c0019bb01/3911a6917f2b833aca25724800819694!OpenDocument|title=Media Release: 1,000 Plus New Seats for Regional Rail commuters|publisher=www.dpc.vic.gov.au|access-date=3 April 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080605073820/http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/798c8b072d117a01ca256c8c0019bb01/3911a6917f2b833aca25724800819694!OpenDocument|archive-date=5 June 2008|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}} The order for the next eight was announced on 12 October 2007.{{cite web|url=http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/8fc6e140ef55837cca256c8c00183cdc/70fd92e6291cad24ca25737400805ee5!OpenDocument|title=Media Release: Extra Carriages to Boost Capacity on Regional Trains|publisher=www.dpc.vic.gov.au|access-date=3 April 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080723151719/http://www.dpc.vic.gov.au/domino/Web_Notes/newmedia.nsf/8fc6e140ef55837cca256c8c00183cdc/70fd92e6291cad24ca25737400805ee5!OpenDocument|archive-date=23 July 2008|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}

In July 2008, the State Government ordered nine new 3-car units, and an additional intermediate car to be inserted into an existing 2-car unit,{{cite web|url=http://www.vline.com.au/media/news/en/11/1451/article.aspx|title=New Train Sets to Boost Capacity on Regional Trains|work=Media Release from the Premier of Victoria|date=31 July 2008|publisher=V/Line|access-date=31 July 2008}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}{{cite news|title=More VLocity in Victoria|url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/more-vlocity-in-victoria.html|access-date=20 November 2017|work=Railway Gazette|date=1 August 2008|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201073917/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/more-vlocity-in-victoria.html|url-status=live}} with an extra four carriages added in February 2009.{{cite news|title=Victorians seek more VLocity|url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/victorians-seek-more-vlocity.html|access-date=27 November 2017|work=Railway Gazette International|date=25 February 2009|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201053654/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/single-view/view/victorians-seek-more-vlocity.html|url-status=live}} The final unit of the order was delivered in September 2011.

With the availability of improved technologies for train control, from mid-2012, sets 3VL30, 3VL40 and 3VL50 were selected by Bombardier as test sets for equipment upgrades, in order to minimise the number of sets containing non-standard systems.{{cite news|last1=Costanzo|first1=Karl|title=Cab Committee Report: Southern Cross|url=http://www.rtbuvicloco.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/LocoLines-Ed-55.pdf|access-date=23 November 2017|work=LocoLines|issue=55|publisher=RTBU Victorian Locomotive Division|date=September 2012|page=21|archive-date=18 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180318094744/http://www.rtbuvicloco.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/LocoLines-Ed-55.pdf|url-status=live}}

In November 2012, the State Government announced an additional 40 carriages would be delivered between 2014 and 2016. The order comprised seven additional 3-car sets plus 19 intermediate cars to increase the remaining 2-car sets to 3-cars.{{cite news|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/state-government-to-buy-40-new-vline-carriages/story-fndo3ewo-1226524303211|title=State Government to buy 40 new V/Line carriages|publisher=Herald Sun|date=26 November 2012}}{{cite web|title=VLocity / Locomotives|url=https://www.railpage.com.au/locos/vlocity|website=Railpage|access-date=20 November 2017|archive-date=27 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171127160621/http://railpage.com.au/locos/vlocity|url-status=live}}

In March 2014, the order for 40 carriages was increased to 43.{{cite web|url=http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/9462-new-vlocity-train-for-the-v-line-network.html|title=New VLocity train for the V/Line network|date=24 March 2014|access-date=24 March 2014|archive-date=24 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324095752/http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/9462-new-vlocity-train-for-the-v-line-network.html|url-status=live}} Further orders were placed for 21 carriages In May 2015 and 27 carriages in April 2016.[http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/257-million-for-new-regional-trains-and-local-jobs/ $257 Million for New Regional Trains and Local Jobs] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705183459/http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/257-million-for-new-regional-trains-and-local-jobs |date=5 July 2015 }} Premier of Victoria 1 May 2015[http://ptv.vic.gov.au/news-and-events/news/public-transport-investments-in-2016-17-victorian-state-budget/ Public transport investments in 2016/17 Victorian Budget] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160502112018/http://ptv.vic.gov.au/news-and-events/news/public-transport-investments-in-2016-17-victorian-state-budget |date=2 May 2016 }} Public Transport Victoria 27 April 2016 All 2-carriage VLocity sets had been converted to 3-carriage sets by May 2018.

File:V Line VLocity train running a service to Southern Cross Station running express through Hawksburn Station, South Yarra (53186001627).jpg

In December 2017, a further nine sets were ordered. Once all were delivered, the fleet comprised 88 3-car sets.[http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/australia-nz/more-vlocity-cars-ordered-for-regional-victoria-services.html More Vlocity cars ordered for regional Victoria services] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222061457/http://www.railjournal.com/index.php/australia-nz/more-vlocity-cars-ordered-for-regional-victoria-services.html |date=22 December 2017 }} International Railway Journal 20 December 2017[http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/bombardier-to-supply-more-vlocity-dmus.html Bombardier to supply more Vlocity DMUs] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222055338/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/bombardier-to-supply-more-vlocity-dmus.html |date=22 December 2017 }} Railway Gazette International 20 December 2017 Of these, sets 76-79 were of a modified configuration, with a single toilet per three-carriage set instead of two, improvements to CCTV, downrating of the engines to {{Cvt|650|hp}} each for fuel economy and altered standing and seating arrangements. Sets from 80 to 88 reverted to two toilets with modified seating and a different front to accommodate a safer driving cabin. As of 6 November 2020 units 80-88 had entered revenue service.

After jockey Michelle Payne won the 2015 Melbourne Cup horse race riding Prince of Penzance, becoming the first female jockey to win the race, set 3VL9 was named Michelle Payne in honour of her regional Victorian ancestry. The set was the first and thus far only VLocity to be named and the first V/Line train to be named since the Sprinters in the late 20th century.{{cite news|last1=Pollock|first1=Michael|title='Payne Train' makes its debut l video|url=http://www.thecourier.com.au/story/3599541/payne-train-makes-its-debut-l-video/|access-date=28 November 2017|work=The Courier|date=22 December 2015|location=Ballarat|language=en|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201041436/http://www.thecourier.com.au/story/3599541/payne-train-makes-its-debut-l-video/|url-status=live}}

In the 2018 Victorian state election campaign, the Andrews government promised that, if re-elected, it would place an order for 18 additional three-car VLocity sets to be delivered from 2021.{{cite news |last1=Carey |first1=Adam |title=Labor promises to order more trains to run on V/Line's busiest lines |url=https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/labor-promises-to-order-more-trains-to-run-on-v-line-s-busiest-lines-20181114-p50fxo.html |access-date=19 February 2019 |work=The Age |date=14 November 2018 |language=en |archive-date=20 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220063137/https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/labor-promises-to-order-more-trains-to-run-on-v-line-s-busiest-lines-20181114-p50fxo.html |url-status=live }}

In the 2022 Victorian state election campaign, the Andrews government promised that, if re-elected, it would place an order for an additional 23 three-car VLocity sets, as part of a promise to boost regional weekend services.{{Cite web |title=Andrews issues price promise for V/Line fares |url=https://www.sheppnews.com.au/news/andrews-issues-price-promise-for-v-line-fares-5/ |access-date=2022-11-08 |website=Shepparton News |date=7 November 2022 |language=en-US |archive-date=8 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108234745/https://www.sheppnews.com.au/news/andrews-issues-price-promise-for-v-line-fares-5/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=Daniel |first=Andrews |date=2 November 2022 |title=Cheaper Fares, More Trains, Extra Services For The Regions |url=https://www.danandrews.com.au/news/cheaper-fares-more-trains-extra-services-for-the-regions |access-date=2022-11-08 |website=Dan Andrews |language=en-AU |archive-date=8 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108234745/https://www.danandrews.com.au/news/cheaper-fares-more-trains-extra-services-for-the-regions |url-status=live }} The government also committed to introducing nine-car VLocity trains to service the Melton railway line in Melbourne's west.{{Cite news |date=6 October 2022 |title=Bigger, Better Trains For Melton And The West |url=https://www.danandrews.com.au/news/bigger-better-trains-for-melton-and-the-west |access-date=2022-11-08 |website=Dan Andrews |language=en-AU |archive-date=8 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221108234745/https://www.danandrews.com.au/news/bigger-better-trains-for-melton-and-the-west |url-status=live }} Production of the 23 sets began in March 2024.{{cite web|url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/manufacturing-begins-new-vlocity-trains|title=Manufacturing Begins On New VLocity Trains|publisher=Premier of Victoria|date=18 March 2024|access-date=20 March 2024}} When completed, there will be a fleet of 141 three car VLocity sets on the V/Line network on the current confirmed contract.

At the current rate of one 3 car set being built every 4-6 weeks the current contract will be completed some time in early 2026 and with a State Election due in the later half of 2026 announcements and promises from both sides of politics are expected on regional rail services.

In January 2016, V/Line removed approximately a quarter of VLocity units from service after identifying unusually high rates of wear to wheel flanges. Compared to a normal rate of {{convert|0.7–1.0|mm/month|in/month}}, Bombardier's service regime noted a maximum wear rate of {{convert|2.6|mm/month|in/month|abbr=on}}.{{sfn|Mutton|Welsby|Younes|Kwong|2016|p=7}} Although unusual wear patterns had been observed since December of the previous year across the V/Line fleet, V/Line CEO Theo Taifalos ordered the withdrawal of the most badly affected units for safety reasons.{{cite news|last1=Carey|first1=Adam|title=V/Line trains forced out of service by mysterious wheel fault|url=http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/vline-trains-forced-out-of-service-by-mysterious-wheel-fault-20160114-gm5o4m.html|access-date=18 November 2017|work=The Age|date=14 January 2016|archive-date=2 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171202210227/http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/vline-trains-forced-out-of-service-by-mysterious-wheel-fault-20160114-gm5o4m.html|url-status=live}}

Meanwhile, on 15 January 2016 a VLocity set failed to activate boom gates at the Progress Street level crossing in Dandenong. This led Metro Trains to ban all sets from operating on suburban lines until the issue had been resolved. The combined restrictions on the VLocity fleet led to the daily cancellation of nearly 70 V/Line services from mid-January.{{cite news|last1=Preiss|first1=Benjamin|last2=Calligeros|first2=Marissa|last3=Carey|first3=Adam|title=V/Line to provide free travel as compensation for disruptions|url=http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/boom-gate-safety-issues-with-vline-vlocity-trains-known-for-more-than-two-years-20160119-gm9lkj.html|access-date=18 November 2017|work=The Age|date=20 January 2016|archive-date=9 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180109084129/http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/boom-gate-safety-issues-with-vline-vlocity-trains-known-for-more-than-two-years-20160119-gm9lkj.html|url-status=live}}

By the beginning of March, Bombardier had increased its capacity to remachine affected wheels, and track identified as potentially contributing to the wheel wear situation had been reprofiled; as a consequence, VLocity units were gradually returned to service.{{cite news|last1=Probert|first1=Oliver|title=VLocity fleet ahead of schedule for return – Rail Express|url=https://www.railexpress.com.au/vlocity-fleet-ahead-of-schedule-for-return/|access-date=18 November 2017|work=Rail Express|date=9 March 2016|language=en-AU|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201053853/https://www.railexpress.com.au/vlocity-fleet-ahead-of-schedule-for-return/|url-status=live}}

In April, a report by the Institute of Railway Technology at Monash University identified tight curves and an inadequate track lubrication on the newly opened Regional Rail Link, particularly along the North Melbourne Flyover near North Melbourne Station, which was upgraded as part of the project as a means of allowing V/Line services to access Platforms 1-8 at Southern Cross without needing to use Metropolitan tracks, as the root cause of the increase in wheel wear, and suggested that the relatively stiff suspension of the VLocity was the reason it had been most severely affected.{{sfn|Mutton|Welsby|Younes|Kwong|2016|pp=70–72}}

The New Generation Rollingstock ordered for Queensland Rail from Bombardier, although built in India, were based on the VLocity design and the 4000 class EMU used by Adelaide Metro, which was itself based on the VLocity shell and assembled in the same factory as the VLocity sets.{{cite news|title=Financial close for Queensland New Generation Rollingstock contract|url=http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/financial-close-for-queensland-new-generation-rollingstock-contract.html|access-date=28 November 2017|work=Railway Gazette|date=29 January 2014|language=en|archive-date=6 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170706021430/http://www.railwaygazette.com/news/traction-rolling-stock/single-view/view/financial-close-for-queensland-new-generation-rollingstock-contract.html|url-status=live}} The Transperth B Series Train is closely related to the VLocity because both were designed at the same time by the same company.

A 2016 asset management report presented by V/Line noted that the VLocity would be unsuitable for higher passenger loads without a complete body redesign, and acknowledged that the operational performance of the VLocity was hampered by the inferior acceleration of V/Line's locomotive-hauled fleet.{{cite web|last1=Hunter|first1=Jim|title=Shaping the Future of Railway: V/Line Asset Management|url=https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/912521/vline-shaping-the-future-of-railway_21sept2016-2.pdf|website=Monash Institute of Railway Technology|publisher=V/Line Network Engineering|date=21 September 2016|access-date=13 December 2017|page=11|archive-date=13 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171213201032/https://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0020/912521/vline-shaping-the-future-of-railway_21sept2016-2.pdf|url-status=live}} The 2016–17 Victorian budget allocated funds for a project to redesign the VLocity for long-haul services, particularly those to Shepparton, Warrnambool and Albury/Wodonga.{{cite web|last1=Morgan|first1=Shana|title='Redesign is under way' on faster VLocity trains for the North East|work=The Border Mail|url=http://www.bordermail.com.au/story/4996233/redesign-is-under-way-on-faster-trains-for-the-north-east/|date=18 October 2017|access-date=20 November 2017|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201042051/http://www.bordermail.com.au/story/4996233/redesign-is-under-way-on-faster-trains-for-the-north-east/|url-status=live}}

File:VLine VL87 Traralgon.jpg

By late 2017, design work had begun on modifications to the interior for units 3VR76-3VR79.

Many of the changes were required for improved compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act. For the later order of 3VL80 and above, more significant alterations to the crash protection in the driver's cabin were introduced.{{cite news|last1=Costanzo|first1=Karl|title=V/Line Cab Committee Report|url=http://www.rtbuvicloco.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/LocoLines-Edition-70.pdf|access-date=15 May 2018|work=LocoLines|issue=70|publisher=Rail Tram and Bus Union Victorian Locomotive Division|date=March 2018|archive-date=16 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180516103800/http://www.rtbuvicloco.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/LocoLines-Edition-70.pdf|url-status=live}}

In October 2018, the state government announced that a new interior layout would be introduced on units 3VR76-3VR79 and 3VL80-3VL88 with 14 extra seats per three-carriage set, at the expense of removing a toilet and bike storage rack from each set.{{cite web |title=More Trains With More Space For Regional Passengers |url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/more-trains-with-more-space-for-regional-passengers/ |website=Premier of Victoria |access-date=19 February 2019 |date=15 October 2018 |archive-date=20 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220122606/https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/more-trains-with-more-space-for-regional-passengers/ |url-status=live }} Cycling lobby groups criticised the new layout, but the government argued that the sets would be restricted to short-distance routes where the additional capacity would be valuable.{{cite news |last1=Jacks |first1=Timna |title=More seats but fewer thrones on new V/Line trains |url=https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/more-seats-but-fewer-thrones-on-new-v-line-trains-20181015-p509s6.html |access-date=19 February 2019 |work=The Age |date=15 October 2018 |language=en |archive-date=20 February 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220063115/https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/more-seats-but-fewer-thrones-on-new-v-line-trains-20181015-p509s6.html |url-status=live }}

The first of the updated type entered service in August 2019.

The current VLocity fleet is restricted to a maximum 3 carriage length due to the size of the various maintenance facilities for them around the state. Extending them to 4, 5 or 6 carriage fixed sets, although technically possible to do, would be difficult to maintain without splitting longer fixed sets into shorter lengths so they could fit on things like whole of train lifting hoists.

File:Vlocity VL61 at North Shore.jpg in September 2017]]

In the lead up to the 2018 Victorian election, opposition leader Matthew Guy announced that his party, if elected to government, would order 16 six car VLocity variants from Bombardier for dedicated long-distance operation, with catering and first class facilities, but the Coalition did not win the election.{{cite news |last1=Willingham |first1=Richard |title=V/Line regional rail to get $633m boost under Coalition election promise |url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-04/vline-regional-rail-to-get-$633m-funding-boost-coalition-pledge/9507248 |access-date=4 July 2018 |work=ABC News |date=4 March 2018 |language=en-AU |archive-date=17 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717014744/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-03-04/vline-regional-rail-to-get-$633m-funding-boost-coalition-pledge/9507248 |url-status=live }}

From May 2018, improvements to level crossing infrastructure saw VLocity test runs to Bairnsdale, ahead of an introduction to revenue service on the line later in the year.{{cite news|title=VLocity test train rolls into Stratford station|url=http://www.gippslandtimes.com.au/story/5371238/vlocity-test-train-rolls-into-stratford-station/|access-date=1 May 2018|work=Gippsland Times|date=30 April 2018|language=en|archive-date=1 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180501225109/http://www.gippslandtimes.com.au/story/5371238/vlocity-test-train-rolls-into-stratford-station/|url-status=live}} At the same time, government representatives announced that the long-haul variant of the VLocity would include onboard refreshment facilities and improved seats.{{cite news|last1=Howard|first1=Jessica|title=Faster, comfy trains pledge but when will it happen?|url=https://www.standard.net.au/story/5405079/faster-comfy-trains-pledge-but-when-will-it-happen/|access-date=20 May 2018|work=The Standard|date=16 May 2018|language=en|archive-date=21 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180521104451/https://www.standard.net.au/story/5405079/faster-comfy-trains-pledge-but-when-will-it-happen/|url-status=live}} A media event was held at Bairnsdale in July of that year, at which it was announced that 2 of 3 daily Bairnsdale trains would be taken over by VLocity sets.

In May 2018, the Rail Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) announced that it had received confirmation that a buffet facility would be included in new intermediate carriages, added to existing sets to form 4-car trains for long-distance services.{{cite news |last1=Ford |first1=Jeff |title=Buffets On VLocitys |url=http://www.rtbuvic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/RTBU-EXPRESS-10-2018.pdf |access-date=4 July 2018 |work=RTBU Express |publisher=Rail, Tram and Bus Union Victorian Branch |date=20 June 2018 |page=2 |archive-date=4 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704093615/http://www.rtbuvic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/RTBU-EXPRESS-10-2018.pdf |url-status=live }} This may explain the unique 15xx carriage numbering of the TMC Buffet equipped Trailer carriages compare to the normal TM 13/23xx number of standard trailer carriages.

In April 2020, designs for standard gauge VLocity sets, to be used on the Albury line, were released by the Department of Transport, showing a standard 3-carriage layout with a centre trailer carriage kiosk.{{Cite web|last=Department of Transport|date=2020-04-23|title=Design unveiled for new North East VLocity trains|url=https://transport.vic.gov.au:443/about/transport-news/news-archive/design-unveiled-for-new-north-east-vlocity-trains|access-date=2020-07-04|website=transport.vic.gov.au|language=en-au|archive-date=14 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220314091453/https://transport.vic.gov.au/about/transport-news/news-archive/design-unveiled-for-new-north-east-vlocity-trains|url-status=live}}

Standard gauge sets VS93 and VS94 entered service on 30 December 2021 on the Albury line.{{Cite web|title=Modern VLocity trains for Albury line passengers|url=https://www.vline.com.au/News-Alerts/News-Articles/2021/December/Modern-VLocity-trains-for-Albury-line-passengers|access-date=2022-01-08|website=V/Line|archive-date=8 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220108234723/https://www.vline.com.au/News-Alerts/News-Articles/2021/December/Modern-VLocity-trains-for-Albury-line-passengers|url-status=live}}

{{As of|2022|June}}, there were six 3-carriage standard gauge sets in service, numbered VS93-98. Albury services run as either 3 or 6 carriage sets depending on expected passenger numbers with a spare 3 carriage set from a Melbourne service stabled at Albury until required for a 6 carriage return journey.

There are four car types in the VLocity class:

• The Driver Motor with Disabled Access cars, numbered 11xx & 21xx and designated DM(D), this is the No.1 or "East" facing end of every set and;
• The Driver Motor cars, numbered 12xx & 22xx and designated DM, this being the No.2 or West facing end with either;
• The standard Trailer Motor cars, numbered 13xx & 23xx and designated TM or;
• The Kiosk fitted Trailer Motor cars, numbered 15xx and designated TMC.{{sfn|Mutton|Welsby|Younes|Kwong|2016|p=7}}

It is usual for the set of semi-permanently coupled cars to be described as zVLxx where z indicates the number of carriages in the fixed set as the original VLocity sets consisted of only the DM(D) & DM carriages making a 2 carriage set with the trailer units being added later to make the current 3 carriage sets. xx is the final two or 3 digits of the car designation – for example, the set 1150-1350-1250 would be described as 3VL50 while standard gauge sets use the VSxx format.,{{cite book|title=Newsrail Style Guide|date=2016|publisher=Australian Railway Historical Society|page=8|url=https://www.arhsvic.org.au/images/ContributorResources/Newsrail-Style-Guide-2016.pdf|access-date=28 November 2017|archive-date=13 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180313182312/https://arhsvic.org.au/images/ContributorResources/Newsrail-Style-Guide-2016.pdf|url-status=live}} the 2VL designation has not been used since May 2018 when the last remaining 2 carriage VLocity Set was converted to 3 carriages.

From the introduction of set 100 onward, the VL designation continued as VL100 and so on. However, set 100 onward use 2xxx carriage numbering, for example set VL128 consists of 2128-2328-2228

Power is provided by a Cummins QSK 19R diesel engine ({{convert|559|kW|hp|abbr=on}}) under each car, attached on a separate underframe. The engine powers both axles on one bogie in each car, while the other bogie is unpowered.{{sfn|Mutton|Welsby|Younes|Kwong|2016|p=11}} The engine is supplemented by an {{convert|80|kW|hp|abbr=on}} Cummins auxiliary power unit for lighting and air-conditioning purposes. The VLocity uses a Voith T312 hydraulic transmission system with dynamic braking capabilities.{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=275}}

According to Cummins, as a result of that propulsion system the VLocity is the most reliable diesel railcar in the world, with a mean distance between failures (MDBF) of {{cvt|150000|km|mi}}.{{cite web|title=VLocity: the most reliable rail car in the world|url=https://www.cummins.com.au/vlocity-railcar//|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170823172038/https://www.cummins.com.au/vlocity-railcar//|url-status=dead|archive-date=2017-08-23|website=Cummins South Pacific|access-date=18 November 2017|date=2014}} V/Line reported a MDBF of {{cvt|157805|km|mi}} in the 2016–17 financial year.{{cite book|title=Annual Report 2016–2017|date=2017|publisher=V/Line Corporation|page=25|url=https://corporate.vline.com.au/getattachment/acc863ea-7212-48ec-bb58-cce1a7cdda18/Annual-Report-2016-17|access-date=13 December 2017|chapter=Asset Management|archive-date=15 March 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315124705/https://corporate.vline.com.au/getattachment/acc863ea-7212-48ec-bb58-cce1a7cdda18/Annual-Report-2016-17|url-status=live}}{{efn|A "failure" is defined under this standard as an event resulting in a five-minute service delay.}}

The primary suspension system of the VLocity is composed of a traction rod, with two elastomer bushes, linking the axle box and bogie frame.{{sfn|Mutton|Welsby|Younes|Kwong|2016|p=11}}

Among the design innovations in the VLocity units are the integration of the air-conditioning unit into the ceiling superstructure, and a structurally isolated crumple zone in the nose which can be entirely replaced with a new module following a crash.{{sfn|Dunn|2013|p=276}}

VLocity units are equipped with Scharfenberg couplers, enabling them to operate with other VLocity units. They can be linked to older Sprinter DMU's but cannot be electrically linked so require a driver in the Sprinter & VLocity and can be towed by a locomotive using a coupling adaptor.

VLocitys operate throughout the V/Line / VicTrack broad gauge passenger network and also on the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) controlled standard gauge line to Albury (NSW), as with most other V/Line services. The bogies were manufactured by Bombardier's Derby Litchurch Lane Works, and are fully gauge-convertible.

The VLocity units have a design life of 35 years. and a permanently coupled three-car unit has a mass of 171 tonnes.{{cite web|title=Network Service Plan - Addenda NA_NSP_03 – R31-2016|url=https://corporate.vline.com.au/getattachment/16cd1a7a-2973-4631-80fc-b6218b9ef990/Addenda|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210313084455/https://corporate.vline.com.au/getattachment/16cd1a7a-2973-4631-80fc-b6218b9ef990/Addenda|archive-date=2021-03-13|website=V/Line Corporate Site|publisher=V/Line Corporation|page=44|access-date=2021-09-21}}

File:VLocity passenger carriage viewed from rear — April 2022.jpg

The driver's console for the VLocity is a dashboard mounted slightly below the one-piece windscreen of the train. There are two seats in the driving cabin with the active driver's seat positioned slightly to the left of the train's centre. The second seat is slightly behind.{{sfn|OCITS|2011|p=12}} The train is controlled by a combined throttle and brake lever, which has six power levels and the ability to vary the brake application. There is also an independent brake lever and a reverser handle in the driver's primary controls.{{sfn|ATSB|2016|p=9–10}} When the trailer cars were added to the existing 2 carriage sets the driver cabs were retro fitted with the extra gauges to monitor the trailer unit driveline.

The seating layout for the VLocity is 2+2, with a mix of club-style seats facing each other, and aircraft-style rows. The seats cannot be rotated to face any particular direction, and seat backs do not recline. Four wheelchair spaces are provided in each set through the provision of tip-up seats. The VLocity offers economy-class seating only, although the seat width is equivalent to first class seating on V/Line locomotive-hauled services.{{cite web|url=http://www.vline.com.au/major/news/en/16/125/article.aspx|title=New VLocity trains|publisher=V/Line|access-date=9 November 2006}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} In response to passenger feedback, the seatback angle in the intermediate carriages was made 2.5 degrees more upright than the original carriages.{{cite web|url=http://www.vline.com.au/about/ourfleet/vline_is_expanding.html|title=V/Line is expanding|publisher=V/Line|access-date=9 November 2006}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} New deliveries from July 2010 onwards (3VL42 and above) featured a changed seatback angle and new seat fabrics.{{cite web|last1=Wong|first1=Marcus|title=New style interior onboard VL00: yellow poles and the same fabric as all of the other refurbished V/Line trains|url=https://railgallery.wongm.com/vline-carriage-interiors/E105_9856.jpg.html|website=Wongm's Rail Gallery|access-date=27 November 2017|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201033321/https://railgallery.wongm.com/vline-carriage-interiors/E105_9856.jpg.html|url-status=live}}

Although VLocity carriages have tinted windows, they lack the curtains as fitted to earlier V/Line rolling stock. Passengers may move freely between the three semi-permanently coupled vehicles in a set, but not between the sets themselves. Conductors move between coupled sets at station stops.

Tables were installed in one unit (2VL28) for evaluation purposes, but were later removed. In three-car VLocity units, 32 seats in the intermediate carriage have fold-down tray tables,{{cite web|url=http://railgallery.wongm.com/3-car-vlocity/D511_1166.jpg.html|title=Looking down VLocity centre car 1341 and the tray tables|work=Wongm's Rail Gallery|date=4 July 2008|publisher=railgallery.wongm.com|access-date=5 July 2010|archive-date=25 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110825143326/http://railgallery.wongm.com/3-car-vlocity/D511_1166.jpg.html|url-status=live}} much like the first class seats on locomotive-hauled services.

Overhead racks exist for small baggage, while larger baggage is stored in designated baggage areas, with some spaces large enough for surfboards and bicycles. In January 2008, passengers were banned from taking bicycles on VLocity trains during peak hours, despite the designated bike area,[http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/01/23/2144848.htm?site=centralvic Train bike ban sparks protest] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105224204/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/01/23/2144848.htm?site=centralvic |date=5 November 2012 }} ABC News 23 January 2008 with the ban repealed in February 2008.[http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/minister-lifts-bicycle-ban-on-peakhour-trains/2008/02/14/1202760492789.html Minister lifts bicycle ban on peak-hour trains] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080217043713/http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/minister-lifts-bicycle-ban-on-peakhour-trains/2008/02/14/1202760492789.html |date=17 February 2008 }} The Age 15 February 2008

The standard gauge long-distance sets have kiosk style catering.

The all-metal construction and metalised window tinting of the VLocity trains is an effective (measured at in excess of 20dB) blocker of all forms of radio communications into and out of the carriages including Mobile phone signals preventing passengers from making reliable calls or utilising data devices.

To overcome this in an Australian first a joint venture between Telstra, V/Line, VicTrack, Alstom and CommScope to retrofit specially designed 3G/4G Mobile Phone Repeater units into all existing VLocity sets in 2018 was created, this included the installation of repeater units in all new VLocity sets built after the joint venture commencement date.

The Node AM repeater is manufactured by CommScope and is designed to rebroadcast the main 3G & 4G 700, 850, 900 & 1800 MHz frequency spectrum utilised by the three Mobiles Phone network providers, Telstra, Optus and TPG Telecom (Vodafone Australia) in Australia.

The program included state government funding for 35 additional Mobile base stations to fix coverage Black Spots for the three networks that the internal repeaters could not overcome.

With the shut down of all 3G networks in Australia now completed and the former 3G radio spectrum to be utilised for the newer 4G & 5G networks the reprogramming and retuning of the Node AM Repeaters is being investigated and lab tested prior to be rolled out on all the repeaters.

File:Vlocity train at little river victoria.jpg, November 2006]]

The original VLocity livery consisted of purple and green facings on a stainless steel car body.In March 2008, newly built VLocity set 3VL41 was outshopped with an altered cab livery, following recommendations in level crossing accident reports that trains be made more more visible to motorists. Portions of reflective yellow were added to the cabs, along with more reflective silver directly beneath the cab windscreen. All units were retrospectively treated.

In June 2010, newly built set 3VL42 was released in a new livery of crimson stripe at roof level replacing the purple, and red replacing the green, a red stripe along the car body below the windows, white doors, and yellow front. The set also received high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights which project light for up to {{Convert|1|km}}, modified windscreen wipers and cab windows.

In 2014, 3VL40 had a new Public Transport Victoria livery applied. All sets from 3VL52 were delivered in the purple livery, and it has been applied to earlier sets and has been nicknamed the "Polly Waffle" livery due to similarities with the so named chocolate bar wrapper colour scheme.

The VLocity seating layout is 2+2 instead of the 2+3 seating provided in other V/Line saloon-type carriages. A single VLocity car seats around 70 passengers, compared to 89 in the previous generation Sprinter with its narrower 2+3 seats.

The Regional Fast Rail project for which the VLocitys were built was criticised at the time for cost blow-outs during construction. These included the cost of installing extra safety measures deemed necessary for 160 km/h operation, which were added to the project after the Waterfall rail accident in New South Wales.

By 2012, the VLocity trains and attendant decreases in travel time were regarded as major factors in the economic revival of towns along V/Line routes. The combined effect of the trains' comfort, speed and reliability was noted to have enabled the creation of new commuter belt locations outside of Melbourne, and the increases in train frequency which followed the introduction of the VLocity sets was said to have substantially improved the convenience of accessing Melbourne from the Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong regions.{{cite news|last1=Stephens|first1=Andrew|title=Picture yourself here?|url=http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/picture-yourself-here-20120120-1qamw.html|access-date=19 November 2017|work=The Age|date=21 January 2012|archive-date=1 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201123337/http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/picture-yourself-here-20120120-1qamw.html|url-status=live}}

A 2014 report by the federal government's Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development found that the VLocity trains had contributed to the overall success of the Regional Fast Rail project in increasing the accessibility of rail services for regional Victoria. The case study concluded that the improved ride quality of the trains was a significant contributor to improved passenger perceptions of rail services, and that the increased service frequency made possible by the trains was ultimately more beneficial from an operational perspective than any real or perceived time savings.{{cite book|title=Improving regional passenger rail services, Report 137|date=May 2014|publisher=Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics|isbn=9781922205674|pages=61–70|url=https://bitre.gov.au/publications/2014/files/report_137_Regional_Rail.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308024531/https://bitre.gov.au/publications/2014/files/report_137_Regional_Rail.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=2017-03-08}}

In 2021, V/line introduced VLocity services on the Albury line, replacing locomotive hauled services. To provide that service, V/Line designed a longer-distance VLocity variant. The move to VLocity operation generated criticism, specifically relating to the reduced comfort, overcrowding, and lack of on-train amenities. There have been regular reports on social media that the onboard catering has not been in operation due to a lack of staff, and criticism of the quality of the offerings from the snack bar substandard.{{Cite web |title=Regional rail catering services |url=https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/parliamentary-activity/hansard/hansard-details/HANSARD-974425065-19045 |website=Victorian Parliament Hansard}}

From November 1st 2024 V/Line introduced VLocity train sets on the Warrnambool line [https://www.vibewire.com.au/?p=106606] to replace all non overnight stabled locomotive hauled passenger services to Warrnambool, which has also been criticised. The complaints centred on the fact that V/Line did not provide trains purpose-designed for services to more distance regional cities. {{Cite web |last=gobstopper |date=2024-08-16 |title=Café booted from Bairnsdale line |url=https://www.vibewire.com.au/?p=108727 |access-date=2024-08-16 |language=en-AU}} Other criticisms about VLocity trains relate to engine noise within the train itself, the quality of seats, and the lack of onboard catering.

On 28 April 2006, set 2VL29 was involved in a collision at a level crossing at Trawalla while travelling from Ararat. It collided with a large tri-axle road trailer carrying a 16-tonne block of stone and two heavy press machines. The front of the train withstood the impact with the trailer, but the press machines were thrown loose, striking and penetrating the cab. The incident caused two fatalities. At the time of the impact, three people were in the cab: the driver, who was seriously injured, and two off-duty Pacific National drivers, one of whom was killed and the other injured. As the train continued through the crossing, the rear trailer swung around and the stone block was thrown off, striking and partially penetrating the side of the leading car 1129, killing one passenger and injuring forty others.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/3878050/decade-since-trawallas-rail-disaster/|title=Decade since Trawalla's rail disaster|last=Whelan|first=Melanie|date=29 April 2016|work=Ballarat Courier|access-date=20 January 2019|archive-date=21 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190121010806/https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/3878050/decade-since-trawallas-rail-disaster/|url-status=live}} The unit had only been in service for seven days before the accident.{{cite news|last1=Moynihan|first1=Stephen|last2=Petrie|first2=Andrea|title=Two killed in Ararat fast-train crash|url=http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2006/04/28/1146198348972.html|access-date=26 December 2017|work=The Age|date=29 April 2006|language=en|archive-date=27 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171227122224/http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2006/04/28/1146198348972.html|url-status=live}} After the accident, both cars were taken to Newport Workshops for examination. Carriage 1129 suffered the most damage and was written off. Carriage 1229, having received relatively minor damage, was sent to Bombardier in Dandenong for repairs. It was later renumbered 1241 and marshalled together with new cars 1141 and 1341 with set 2VL29 struck off the register.

On 5 May 2006, set 2VL4, travelling on the 09:38 service from Southern Cross to Ararat, collided with a car at the protected Rockbank level crossing near Melton. Thirty train passengers and the driver of the car were taken to hospital.

On 26 February 2010, during a passenger service to Bendigo, the driver of sets 2VL6, 2VL5 and 2VL17, three two-car sets coupled together, was alerted to the smell of smoke in the leading car of 2VL5. The train stopped at Watergardens, where the driver, and a relief driver also on board the train, discovered a fire in the park brake system of 2VL5, which they were able to extinguish quickly.{{sfn|OCITS|2010|p=11}} 2VL6 was decoupled and continued to Bendigo without incident.{{sfn|OCITS|2010|p=9}} An investigation found that the park brake had either not been released on departure, or had been inadvertently activated by the relief driver who was travelling in the empty cab of the 2VL5 lead car.{{sfn|OCITS|2010|p=27}}

On 22 August 2014, a Metro Trains Comeng train Train 6502 consisted of two, 3-car sets being of cars 338M (Leading) - 1092T - 484M and 487M - 1052T - 427M., which had departed Laverton en route to Flinders Street, stopped after the driver noticed a loud noise and an apparent fault in his train's braking system.{{sfn|ATSB|2016|p=3}} The V/Line train 8280 was a VLocity Diesel Multiple Unit consisting of VL05 (units 1105 (leading) and 1205), VL12 (units 1112 and 1212) and VL39 (units 1139, 1339 and 1239), which was being transferred from Geelong to Southern Cross without passengers, passed a red automatic signal in a manner that did not conform to Section 3, Rule 1 of the 1994 Book of Rules and Operating Procedures, and the driver was unable to stop before VL5 (1105) collided with the rear (427M) of stationary Metro train. The driver of the VLocity and 8 passengers on the Metro train sustained minor injuries.{{sfn|ATSB|2016|pp=4–5}} An investigation by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau found that the driver of the VLocity was travelling too fast for the situation, was distracted and the inadequate rear marker lights on the Metro EMU contributed to the collision.{{sfn|ATSB|2016|p=21}}

On 15 February 2017, set 3VL34 collided with a vehicle that had been abandoned on the line near Kangaroo Flat and derailed. Two people were injured.{{cite web |url=http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/4470299/bendigo-train-car-collide/#slide=3 |title=Bendigo train, car collide near Kangaroo Flat |publisher=Fairfax Media |work=Bendigo Advertiser |date=15 February 2017 |access-date=19 February 2017 |archive-date=18 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170218191917/http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/4470299/bendigo-train-car-collide/#slide=3 |url-status=live }}

On 30 May 2020, set 3VL70 failed to stop at Ballarat station, due to a braking problem, and smashed through the historic Lydiard Street interlocked level crossing swing gates at 93 km/h, finally stopping some 600m past the station platform. The Lydiard Street level crossing was closed for a year. In May 2021, the Victorian government announced that the gates at the Lydiard Street level crossing gates would not be repaired, and would be replaced by boom barriers. The level crossing re-opened to traffic on 16 November 2021.

On 14 July 2022, set 3VL35, on a scheduled Echuca - Southern Cross service, collided with a semi trailer at an unprotected level crossing near Goornong, 30 km north-east of Bendigo. None of the 40 passengers on the train were injured, but both the train and truck driver were taken to hospital. VL35 was repaired and returned to revenue service.

On 11 December 2023, set 3VL100, on a scheduled Geelong Service, collided with a semi trailer that was blocking the Station Street level crossing in Norlane. None of the crew or 25 passengers on the train were injured, but the driver of the truck was killed.{{cite news |last=Tuffield |first=Rhiannon |date=11 December 2023 |title=Truck driver dies after colliding with V/Line train west of Melbourne |url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/victoria-news-man-killed-after-truck-collided-with-vline-train/97f89d21-4bf6-481e-bb04-0da9216b2ee9 |work=Nine News |location= |publisher= |access-date=12 February 2025}}

On the afternoon of 30 November 2024 Standard Gauge set 3VS97 derailed at slow speed near Southern Cross No.1 Signal Box affecting all Standard Gauge services to Southern Cross, including the Sydney XPT service which terminated short at Broadmeadows, until it was rerailed later that evening. This was a positioning move so there were no passengers on board at the time.

At 10:10am, on 11 February 2025, 3VL60, operating as a 6 car Down Bairnsdale [8461] service with 3VL01, collided with a truck towing a Dog Trailer loaded with a Skid Steer at an uncontrolled farm driveway Level Crossing in Kilmany. The impact caused the trailer or Skid Steer to penetrate the side of DM(D) Carriage 1160 dislodging some passenger seats but no serious injuries reported.{{cite news |last=Hohne |first=John |date=11 February 2025 |title=Passengers evacuated after train collides with truck on Princes Highway in regional Victoria |url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/kilmany-passengers-evacuated-after-train-collides-with-truck-on-victorian-highway/59e508c8-f5f1-4eb7-b325-c9441e96c57c |work=Nine News |location= |publisher= |access-date=12 February 2025}}

Technically, a maximum of four 3-car VLocity sets can be coupled together as a single train. Between 2008 and 2016, some 7-car VLocity trains operated on the Geelong line, made up of two 2-car sets and a 3-car set. However, following the conversion of the entire VLocity fleet to run as 3-car sets, almost all VLocity services have operated as three or six car trains. The exception is that, from 30 May 2022, due to heavy peak period patronage, some 9-car VLocity trains started operating between Wyndham Vale and Southern Cross during peak times.{{cite web |title=Increasing Train Capacity In Melbourne's West |url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/increasing-train-capacity-melbournes-west |website=Premier of Victoria |access-date=31 May 2022 |archive-date=30 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220530225535/https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/increasing-train-capacity-melbournes-west |url-status=live }}

VLocity trains are authorised to run in revenue service on the following lines:

• North East line from Melbourne to Seymour, Shepparton, and on standard gauge to Albury{{Cite web|title=Modern VLocity trains for Albury line passengers|url=https://www.vline.com.au/News-Alerts/News-Articles/2021/December/Modern-VLocity-trains-for-Albury-line-passengers|access-date=2022-01-09|website=V/Line|archive-date=8 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220108234723/https://www.vline.com.au/News-Alerts/News-Articles/2021/December/Modern-VLocity-trains-for-Albury-line-passengers|url-status=live}}
• Gippsland line from Melbourne to Traralgon and Bairnsdale
• Bendigo line from Melbourne to Bendigo, and then to Eaglehawk on the Swan Hill line and Echuca on the Echuca line
• Warrnambool line from Melbourne to Waurn Ponds and Warrnambool
• Serviceton line to Ballarat and then to Ararat, and from Ballarat to Maryborough on the Mildura line.
• non passenger services have run between Geelong and Ballarat during periods where the direct Melbourne Ballarat line is closed due to works to allow access to the Ballarat Workshops for train servicing purposes.

VLocity trains are permitted to run up to {{convert|160|km/h|mph||abbr=on}} only on lines where all level crossings are protected by boom gates and lights and track upgrades have been completed. However, services to Echuca (past Epsom) and Ararat (past Wendouree) run on lines that do not meet these standards, and as a result, cannot reach their full speed. The Echuca line has been upgraded to allow {{convert|130|km/h|mph||abbr=on}} operation.{{Cite web|title=Bendigo and Echuca Line Upgrade|url=https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/bendigo-and-echuca-line-upgrade|access-date=2022-04-20|website=Victoria's Big Build|archive-date=2 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220402151506/https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/bendigo-and-echuca-line-upgrade|url-status=live}} In 2017, the State Government announced upgrade works to extend VLocity services to Warrnambool, Albury and Bairnsdale,{{cite news|last1=Payne|first1=Nicholas|title=Regional rail: Plan to run faster VLocity trains to Warrnambool will cut 20 minutes off commute|url=http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/news/geelong/regional-rail-plan-to-run-faster-vlocity-trains-to-warrnambool-will-cut-20-minutes-off-commute/news-story/c1e09c1f938437149b5c599972617bab|access-date=19 November 2017|work=Geelong Advertiser|date=21 July 2017|archive-date=1 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701115054/https://insight.adsrvr.org/track/up?adv=vrges6n&ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.geelongadvertiser.com.au%2Fsubscribe%2Fnews%2F1%2F%3FsourceCode%3DGAWEB_WRE170_a%26dest%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.geelongadvertiser.com.au%252Fnews%252Fgeelong%252Fregional-rail-plan-to-run-faster-vlocity-trains-to-warrnambool-will-cut-20-minutes-off-commute%252Fnews-story%252Fc1e09c1f938437149b5c599972617bab%26memtype%3Danonymous%26mode%3Dpremium&upid=3ausds4&upv=1.1.0|url-status=live}} and in 2019 announced upgrades to allow them to run to Shepparton.{{cite web|url=https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/more-trains-and-better-services-on-the-shepparton-line/|title=More Trains And Better Services On The Shepparton Line|date=14 February 2019|access-date=28 October 2019|archive-date=28 October 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191028060726/https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/more-trains-and-better-services-on-the-shepparton-line/|url-status=live}}

A VLocity simulator is used by V/Line for driver training. The simulator replicates the driving cabin of the VLocity and includes forward vision and rear mirror graphics and audio effects. An instructor positioned outside the simulator can control track conditions and replicate some faults with the train itself.{{cite news|last1=Marotta|first1=Marc|title=Secretary's Report|url=http://www.rtbuvicloco.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/LocoLines-Edition-58.pdf|access-date=27 November 2017|work=LocoLines|issue=58|publisher=RTBU Victorian Locomotive Division|date=September 2013|page=4|archive-date=18 March 2018|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180318094534/http://www.rtbuvicloco.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/LocoLines-Edition-58.pdf|url-status=live}}

On 21 June 2020, a 9-car train, consisting of sets 3VL7, 3VL63 and 3VL23, undertook a test run from Southern Cross to Wyndham Vale to test 9-car operation and platform fit at several stations.{{Cite news|last1=Wong|first1=Marcus|title=V/Line - 9-car VLocity train testing|url=https://railgallery.wongm.com/vlocity-9-car-testing/|access-date=2020-07-04|website=Wongm's Rail Gallery|language=en|archive-date=4 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200704093641/https://railgallery.wongm.com/vlocity-9-car-testing/|url-status=live}} As of June 2022 there are now selected 9 carriage services from Wyndham Vale and Melton to Southern Cross in peak periods.

Standard gauge VLocity services on the Albury line began on 30 December 2021, while V/Locity services to Shepparton began revenue services from 31 October 2022. VLocity services to Warrnambool began from 1 November 2024 with all Warrnambool services to be using VLocity sets once the upgraded stabling facilities at Warrnambool are completed in 2025.

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• {{cite book |title=Collision between V/Line train 8280 and MTM train 6502, Altona, Vic, on 22 August 2014 |date=6 July 2016 |publisher=Australian Transport Safety Bureau |url=https://www.atsb.gov.au/media/5770742/ro-2014-016_final-report.pdf |access-date=20 November 2017 |ref={{sfnref |ATSB |2016}}}}
• {{cite book |title=Brake Fire: V/Line Train 8025 |date=2010 |publisher=Office of the Chief Investigator Transport Safety |url=https://economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/1326910/2010-02-26-Train-Brake-Fire-Watergardens-Station-Sydenham.pdf |access-date=28 November 2017 |ref={{sfnref |OCITS |2010}}}}
• {{cite book |title=Signal Passed at Danger: V/Line Passenger Train 8415 |date=2011 |publisher=Office of the Chief Investigator Transport Safety |url=https://economicdevelopment.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/1326942/2011-11-30-Signal-Passed-at-Danger-VLine-Passenger-Train-8415-Flinders-St-Station.pdf |access-date=18 November 2017 |ref={{sfnref |OCITS |2011}}}}
• {{cite book |last1=Dunn |first1=John |title=Comeng: A History of Commonwealth Engineering Volume 5, 1985-2012 |date=2013 |publisher=Rosenberg Publishing |isbn=9781925078046 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fc5UAQAAQBAJ |access-date=17 November 2017 |language=en}}
• {{cite book |last1=Mutton |first1=P |last2=Welsby |first2=D |last3=Younes |first3=S |last4=Kwong |first4=M |title=VLocity Wheel Wear Investigation for V/Line Pty Ltd |date=1 April 2016 |publisher=Institute of Railway Technology |location=Melbourne |url=https://corporate.vline.com.au/getattachment/News-Alerts/Media-Releases/Release-of-report-into-VLocity-wheel-wear-(1)/Monash-IRT-Report-April-2016.pdf |access-date=17 November 2017 }}

{{Victorian rolling stock|state=collapsed}}

Category:Bombardier Transportation multiple units

Category:Diesel multiple units of Victoria (state)

Category:Alstom multiple units