The iconic Apekop train, also known as the Mat ‘64, has returned to the tracks in the Netherlands after being retired for several years. While the newer trains are refurbished, the old train will fill in on the route between Amersfoort and Barneveld Zuid.
Dutch transport company Keolis announced that it has started the renovation of its RRReis trains on the Amersfoort - Ede-Wageningen route. During this time, there would be fewer trains on the tracks, so to make sure travellers still get to where they need to go, Keolis is bringing an iconic train out of retirement: the Apekop, known for the shape of its nose.
From May 6, the Mat ‘64 will run for two years on weekdays during the morning rush hour. The company providing public transport in Almere, Utrecht and Amersfoort, among others, chose to use the Apekop train as it is not an easy task to borrow temporary trains from NS.
While the older train has benches instead of seats, no air conditioning or wi-fi, it can carry the same number of passengers as the newer trains. The train will only run at 6.55am and 7.55am from Amersfoort and at 7.23am and 8.23am from Barneveld Zuid, and in unforeseen circumstances.
Train drivers are excited to take to the tracks with the beloved train that was first introduced in 1961 and retired in 2016. "They can't wait to be able to drive it,” manager of the route Harina Reuvers told RTV Utrecht. “The Apekop still has mechanical controls, it is really quite old."
"I have been working in public transport since 1989, I followed the training to become a driver in 2007 and did my exams on this historic train," said Reuvers. Michiel Dermois, another train driver, enjoys the mechanical controls. "It's a wonderful train to drive. It drives a bit more old-fashioned, so you're more like a driver on this train."
The drivers aren’t the only ones who are enthusiastic about the use of the older train. During the test drive with the train a week before it was officially put to use, many enthusiasts and families climbed on board and enjoyed the ride. "The old benches instead of chairs, that's so comfortable", a boy told NOS.