Electric trams without tracks, slated for deployment in two more Pakistani cities
Pakistan's Trackless Electric Tram System Expands to Major Cities
Pakistan's Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART) trackless electric tram system, successfully launched in Lahore, is now expanding to several other major cities including Faisalabad and Gujranwala. This innovative zero-emission, driver-assisted electric vehicle operates without traditional tracks, marking a significant step forward in urban mobility and climate-friendly transport in the region.
Technology and Design
The SART tram relies on Virtual Track Technology, a system that uses sensors, GPS, and digital mapping to navigate standard roadways. Although capable of autonomous operation, it is currently manually driven in Pakistan for safety. The tram consists of interconnected compartments, typically three, with air conditioning and spacious seating, and an option to add a fourth compartment.
Capacity
Each SART tram can carry up to 320 passengers, with the option to add a fourth coach to accommodate over 400 passengers. A locally assembled model under development offers a capacity of up to 250 passengers.
Benefits
The zero-emission aspect of the SART tram contributes to environmental sustainability and reduction of urban air pollution. Additionally, lower infrastructure costs compared to traditional tram or metro systems are a significant advantage due to the absence of tracks and related rail infrastructure. The system is designed to operate alongside regular traffic on existing roads without drastic urban redesign, making it ideal for cities with space constraints and traffic challenges. Its high passenger capacity also improves mass transit efficiency in densely populated cities.
Challenges
Despite its advantages, the SART system has faced some public skepticism and social media criticism, sometimes perceived merely as an advanced bus rather than a new tram modality. Being a new technology, integrating digital navigation with real-time city traffic and ensuring safety might be challenging, currently requiring manual operation. Scaling up to multiple cities entails logistical, financial, and operational complexities to tailor capacity and routes to specific urban environments.
Future Outlook
Last week, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz took an experimental ride on the country's first fully electric, trackless tram from Raiwind Road to Muslim Town. The SART trams include air-conditioned interiors, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi connectivity, and smart displays. The roll-out of the SART tram marks a significant milestone in Pakistan's urban mobility and climate-friendly transport strategy. Fast-charging stations can deliver 27 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz plans to launch the SART tram in Faisalabad and Gujranwala, as part of Pakistan's efforts to modernize public transport in densely populated urban centres. The SART initiative is a leap toward inclusive, sustainable cities, as stated by Chief Minister Maryam. The SART tram, developed by Norinco International, is expected to relieve traffic congestion and reduce emissions, contributing to a greener and more efficient urban transport system in Pakistan.
- Given Pakistan's expansion of the SART trackless electric tram system to cities like Faisalabad and Gujranwala, the country's modernization of public transport in densely populated urban centers is becoming increasingly apparent.
- The SART tram system, relying on Virtual Track Technology, has showcased its ability to navigate standard roadways, making it a potential game-changer for urban mobility and climate-friendly transport.
- The high passenger capacity of the SART tram, with options for carrying up to 400 passengers, improves mass transit efficiency, especially in densely populated cities.
- The zero-emission aspect of the SART tram contributes not only to environmental sustainability but also to reducing urban air pollution, making it an essential part of Pakistan's climate-friendly transport strategy.
- As Norinco International continues to develop and refine the SART tram, advanced features like air-conditioned interiors, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi connectivity, and smart displays add to the appeal of this innovative, climate-friendly transport solution.
