KAI's Nusantara Explorer Luxury Train Undergoes Static and Dynamic Testing
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has carried out static and dynamic testing on two Nusantara Explorer luxury sleeper train carriages that have completed interior work at the Surabaya Gubeng rail depot.
The dynamic test was conducted on a return journey between Surabaya Gubeng and Lamongan. The testing was carried out to evaluate the rolling stock’s performance while in motion, including train stability, the braking system, electrics and the functioning of supporting facilities.
Previously, KAI also conducted static testing to check the function of systems and facilities while the train was stationary. Both stages of testing form part of the evaluation process before the development of the Nusantara Explorer proceeds to the next stage.
KAI Vice President of Corporate Communication Anne Purba said the Nusantara Explorer is still undergoing gradual development and refinement at the Surabaya Gubeng depot.
“Of the planned development of a set consisting of 12 carriages, two carriages have now completed the interior work and undergone static and dynamic testing. The test results will serve as material for evaluation in the next refinement process,” Anne said.
The Nusantara Explorer is being developed as a luxury sleeper train combining private resting quarters, personal service, cuisine, entertainment and the experience of enjoying the landscape during the journey.
The set is planned to comprise 12 carriages, including sleeping-cabin carriages, a Grand Restaurant, a lounge and operational support carriages. The entire development and modification process is centred at the Surabaya Gubeng depot.
“The Nusantara Explorer demonstrates the capability of the workers at the Surabaya Gubeng depot in developing rolling stock with an increasingly diverse service concept. Technical experience and the workers’ precision are an important part of every stage of the work,” Anne said.
The sleeping cabin concept on the Nusantara Explorer is designed in three categories: Signature Class, Advance Class and Compact Class. Each has a different spatial layout and level of privacy to suit customer needs.
Signature Class is designed with more spacious cabins and private facilities. Advance Class combines sleeping comfort with efficient cabin layout. Meanwhile, Compact Class has a more compact design with resting and storage facilities that still support travel comfort.
The Nusantara Explorer is also designed to feature a Grand Restaurant as a dining space. This area has been developed to serve customers more personally through table arrangements, lighting and private dining rooms.
The set is also planned to include a lounge as a space for relaxation and socialising. Its concept encompasses lounge seating, a bar, entertainment facilities, a piano, an audio system and windows for enjoying the scenery along the journey.
The interior of the Nusantara Explorer combines neoclassical proportions, warm-toned materials, soft lighting and Indonesian cultural motifs. Each space is designed to have its own identity while remaining connected within a single Nusantara travel theme.
This cultural inspiration is present through elements of wayang kulit shadow puppetry, Batik Lasem, Sekar Jagad and Balinese motifs. These are reflected in the interior elements, decorative patterns, materials and choice of colours.
“Indonesian cultural identity is part of the Nusantara Explorer experience concept. The spaces, motifs, cuisine and service have been developed so that customers can feel the character of the archipelago during their journey,” Anne explained.
Following the static and dynamic testing of the two carriages, KAI will continue technical evaluation, facility refinement and work on the remaining carriages in line with the development stages.
The route, schedule, fares, final composition of the set and operating times of the Nusantara Explorer will be announced once the entire process of development, testing, inspection and service preparation is complete.
“KAI will ensure that every aspect of safety, rolling stock reliability and service readiness meets the requirements before the Nusantara Explorer is used to serve customers,” Anne concluded.