Australia: Leasing company Rail First has opened a new production shop at its Islington site. It will double freight wagon output from 50 to 100 units/year, with room to expand to 200 units/year. Investments total AUD 2.4 mln ($1.6 mln), creating 15 jobs.
Rail First is Australia’s largest freight wagon lessor, managing a fleet of 1,400 wagons and 80+ locomotives. It also handles overhaul.
Freight wagons from Rail First. Source: Rail First
The firm began building piggiback and container flatcars in 2021, becoming the country’s sole producer of such rolling stock. Wagons use local steel and components, accredited for nationwide operation. By late 2024, Rail First had reported to deliver its 250th wagon, with ARTC as its largest customer.
It is worth noting that at the end of last year, another Australian firm—Gemco Rail—launched its second wagon manufacturing plant in the country. Iron ore wagons are produced at the Karratha site. However, the rolling stock is assembled predominantly from Chinese-made components to CRRC designs.
