KAI's Nusantara Explorer Luxury Train Undergoes Static and Dynamic Testing

Two carriages have completed the interior work phase of the planned 12-carriage train set. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has carried out static and dynamic tests on two carriages of the Nusantara Explorer Luxury Sleeper Train, which have finished the interior work stage at the Surabaya Gubeng railway workshop. The dynamic test was conducted on the Surabaya Gubeng–Lamongan round-trip route. The test was carried out to evaluate the performance of the rolling stock while in motion, including train stability, the braking system, electrical systems, and the function of supporting facilities. Previously, KAI also conducted a static test to check the system functions and facilities while the train was stationary. Both testing stages are part of the evaluation process before the development of the Nusantara Explorer proceeds to the next phase. KAI’s Vice President of Corporate Communication, Anne Purba, stated that the Nusantara Explorer is still undergoing a gradual process of development and refinement at the Surabaya Gubeng railway workshop. “From the planned development of a 12-carriage train set, two carriages have now completed the interior work phase and undergone static and dynamic tests. The test results will serve as evaluation material for the subsequent refinement process,” Anne said. The Nusantara Explorer is being developed as a luxury sleeper train that combines private resting spaces, personal service, culinary offerings, entertainment, and the experience of enjoying the landscape during the journey. The planned 12-carriage set will include sleeper cabins, a Grand Restaurant, a lounge, and operational support carriages. The entire development and modification process for the rolling stock is centred at the Surabaya Gubeng railway workshop. “The Nusantara Explorer demonstrates the capability of the Surabaya Gubeng workshop workers in developing rolling stock with increasingly diverse service concepts. The technical experience and meticulousness of the workers are an important part of every stage of the work,” Anne said. The sleeper cabin concept on the Nusantara Explorer is designed in three categories: Signature Class, Advance Class, and Compact Class. Each offers a different spatial composition and level of privacy to suit customer needs. The Signature Class is designed with a more spacious cabin and private facilities. The Advance Class combines sleeping comfort with cabin layout efficiency. Meanwhile, the Compact Class features a more streamlined design with resting and storage facilities that still support travel comfort. The Nusantara Explorer is also designed with a Grand Restaurant as a culinary service space. This area is developed to serve customers more personally through table settings, lighting, and private dining spaces. The train set is also planned to include a lounge as a space for relaxation and interaction. The concept includes lounge chairs, a bar, entertainment facilities, a piano, an audio system, and windows to enjoy the scenery throughout the journey. The interior of the Nusantara Explorer combines neoclassical proportions, warm-toned materials, soft lighting, and Indonesian cultural motifs. Each space is designed with its own identity while remaining connected within a single Nusantara travel theme. This cultural inspiration is drawn from wayang kulit, Lasem batik, Sekar Jagad, and Balinese motifs. Its application is visible in interior elements, decorative patterns, materials, and colour choices. “The Indonesian cultural identity is part of the Nusantara Explorer experience concept. The spaces, motifs, cuisine, and service are developed so that customers can feel the character of the archipelago during the journey,” Anne explained. Following the static and dynamic tests on the two carriages, KAI will continue with technical evaluations, facility refinements, and work on the remaining carriages according to the development stages. The route, schedule, fares, final train set composition, and operational launch date for the Nusantara Explorer will be announced after the entire development, testing, inspection, and service preparation process is complete. “KAI will ensure that every aspect of safety, rolling stock reliability, and service readiness meets the regulations before the Nusantara Explorer is used to serve customers,” Anne concluded.