Brookville's first LRV for Detrot's QLINE arrived Sept. 13, nearly two months ahead of schedule.
M-1 RAIL recently began the first of nearly 1,000 tests to be conducted before the start of passenger operations in spring 2017, operating a small motorized inspection “speeder” to ensure the track is free of obstructions in advance of the first QLINE vehicle delivery.
The three-section-articulated QLINE streetcars are 66 feet long and will carry an average of 125 passengers. The QLINE will share the right-of-way with vehicular traffic on Woodward Ave. at speeds up to 35 mph. The QLINE streetcars will feature wi-fi access for passengers, vertical bicycle racks and and an HVAC system designed to operate in all types of weather. The QLINE will allow for station-level access for pedestrians as well as persons who use mobility assistance devices such as wheelchairs.
“Delivery of the first QLNE streetcar is an important milestone for this project,” said M-1 RAIL CEO Matt Cullen. “We’re bringing a sleek, modern vehicle of exceptional quality to Detroit. This project is one of the most innovative public transportation projects in the world today, from our landmark private-public partnership to the innovative off-wire battery technology that will power the QLINE, we couldn’t be more pleased to welcome the first QLINE vehicle.”
“Receiving the first QLINE streetcar at this time will provide M-1 RAIL a greater opportunity to help Detroiters acclimate to the idea of sharing the road with a streetcar, and give us additional time for driver training,” said M-1 RAIL Chief of Operations, Paul Childs. “Over the next few weeks, we’ll complete the final assembly and mechanical checks needed before the streetcar makes its first appearance on Woodward Ave.”
“The early delivery of this QLINE streetcar vehicle is a product of the outstanding working relationship we have experienced in our partnership with M-1 RAIL,” said Marion Van Fosson, President of Brookville Equipment Corporation. We look forward to delivering the next five vehicles and celebrating the QLINE opening with M-1 RAIL and the people of Detroit very soon.”