Embracing the Future of Transit with the Rail Bus, Transforming Urban Transit in Zhuzhou, China
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China has unveiled an ingenious public transportation solution designed to alleviate commuting challenges—a hybrid self-driving vehicle that blends the features of a train and a bus, potentially marking the world’s first railless train.
Termed as the Autonomous Rail Transit (ART), this elongated vehicle made its debut in Zhuzhou, Hunan province. Sporting three standard train/tube-like compartments, the ART runs on a virtual track rather than traditional rails, giving it the technical classification of a bus.
The Innovative ART: Bridging Trains and Buses
The ART, with a capacity to accommodate up to 307 passengers and reach speeds of up to 70km per hour, is currently undergoing testing on a 6.5km track in Zhuzhou. Constructed by CRRC, the company envisions making it operational by the coming year. Beyond addressing congestion, the ART aims to combat rising pollution levels by being completely battery-operated, covering 15 miles with just a 10-minute charge.
Modularity and Efficiency
Resembling a modular train or a contemporary tram, the ART allows for the addition or removal of carriages to cater to varying passenger loads.
The ART is a rubber-tired, electric-powered vehicle that navigates using virtual tracks projected onto the road. These virtual tracks are essentially digital guidelines that the train’s onboard sensors and AI system follow. Its navigation is guided by a pair of white lines painted on the street, and equipped with sensors akin to autonomous vehicles, ensuring obstacle avoidance.
A Vision Six Years in the Making
The development of ART commenced in 2013, driven by the necessity to alleviate congestion in China’s bustling urban centers. The government’s focus on establishing a cost-effective solution to traffic congestion materialized through CRRC’s efforts, resulting in the construction of the ART at a cost nearly equivalent to a regular bus in Chinese urban areas.
China’s breakthrough with the Autonomous Rail Transit not only presents a revolutionary approach to public transportation but also addresses environmental concerns. As the world eagerly anticipates the operational deployment of this innovative hybrid, it stands as a testament to China’s commitment to pioneering solutions for urban challenges.
In conclusion, the Autonomous Rail Transit emerges as a transformative force in urban transportation, spearheading a new era of efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. This self-driving marvel, introduced by CRRC, challenges conventional notions of buses, trains, and trams.
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