[2] The class is used on the Coastal Pacific, the Northern Explorer and the TranzAlpine, replacing panorama 56-foot carriages.

It has GPS-triggered announcements, with displays on ceiling-mounted screens and commentary at each seat in five languages: English, French, German, Japanese and Mandarin.

With large panoramic windows and quarter lights in the roof, the area of glass per AK car is 52 m2 (560 sq ft).

Carry-on baggage can be stored overhead.In March 2018 it was reported that two SA carriages were being overhauled and converted into luggage vans for KiwiRail Scenic Journeys.

The new AKS vans are fitted with a crew compartment, luggage and bicycle racks, recycling and catering storage.