"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
12 Jan 2024
Have you ever imagined trains gliding through city streets instead of on traditional tracks? In Zhuzhou, China, this futuristic vision has become a reality with the groundbreaking Rail Bus, a unique mode of transportation designed by Chinese company CRRC.
From Design to Realization in Just Five Months
Introduced to the public in June 2023, the Rail Bus swiftly moved from concept to reality. In an astonishing timeline of fewer than five months, CRRC initiated testing on a four-kilometer road in Zhuzhou, marking a significant leap in urban transportation innovation.
Road-Mapped Revolution:
Navigating city streets beyond traditional tracks, the Rail Bus follows painted road markings, utilizing sensors beneath the vehicle. These sophisticated sensors, incorporating advanced technology, meticulously capture minute road details, ensuring an exceptionally precise journey with millimeter-level accuracy.
Cost-Effective and Sustainable Urban Transit
Aiming to replace the costly underground railway system, the Rail Bus offers an economical solution, costing only a quarter of the expenses associated with traditional subway systems in China. With a quick ten-minute recharge for a 25-kilometer journey, this electric marvel combines cost-effectiveness with sustainability, reaching speeds of up to 43 km per hour.
The Road Ahead: Automation and Global Inspiration
CRRC envisions a future of full automation for the Rail Bus network, minimizing human intervention (no drivers) and reducing traffic congestion. The success of this transformative transport system in China serves as an inspiration for urban planners worldwide, promoting a shift towards efficient and sustainable urban transit.