'Spy Tram' surveys network

Don’t be fooled. This is no ordinary tram.
 
Those red lights are state-of-the-art 3D lasers.
 
And a look inside reveals a bank of computers undertaking advanced data analytics.
 
This is an Asset Survey Tram – aka the ‘Spy Tram’ – that has been traversing the entire 250 kilometres of Melbourne’s tram network this month to inform future infrastructure works.
 
The specially kitted out tram uses sensors and cameras to analyse every detail of the network, from the smoothness of the rail to the condition of the surrounding concrete road.
 
Along with physical inspections, this information is used to prioritise the $65 million of infrastructure works undertaken each year to improve reliability and safety.