Edited 26 Apr 2019 07:38, 2 years ago, edited by NimbleJack

If the Xplorer has a buffet then what is the difficulty in the vlocity having a buffet?

• Irregular set length, which complicates infrastructure design
• Irregular set composition, which reduces operational flexibility
• High installation costs
• High operational losses
• Relatively short journey times compared with NSW services

Standard-gauge VLocity sets will end up with buffet modules as they are destined to operate on a distinct network with no possibility of being switched out at short notice to different lines. This network is also wholly immune to notions of opportunity cost or economic reason.

Your best bet for broad-gauge VLocitys is either vending machines or ambulant catering, though I wouldn't hold my breath.

It would be a retrograde step in service if lines such as Shepparton , and Swan Hill that currently have on board catering cease to offer this .
The journey times are long enough to warrant it .
Is this likely to significantly alter with the introduction of Vlocities ?

Indeed. And if you happen to be passing through Gippsland next spring, do put aside a few minutes to admire the spectacular flowerbeds around Bairnsdale station. They're fertilised with the bodies of famished unfortunates who perished on the four-hour VLocity journey from Southern Cross.

Plenty more where they came from, too. The last N-set service out that way, 8410/8427, should be gone by the end of the year. It's mostly a matter of figuring out a feral-proof overnight stabling arrangement for a six-car VLocity in Bairnsdale yard.

Someone else mentioned the overweight VLocitys, 76-79. Although still marooned in the storage yard near E-Gate, with luck they will enter revenue service before winter. Once they do, don't expect them to be restricted to the Geelong line. Those purple fatties will be turning up in Ararat and Traralgon before you know it.