The design of the Rail Bus was presented to the public in
June 2023, and remarkably, within a span of fewer than five months, CRRC
initiated testing on October 30, 2017. Covering a 3-kilometer route with stops
at four stations in Zhuzhou, this marked a significant milestone in
transportation evolution.
How does it operate?
Operating beyond the confines of tracks, it navigates urban
streets by tracing painted road markings. These meticulously designed markings
serve as its guide, detected by sensors fitted beneath the vehicle. These
sensors, equipped with advanced technology, capture minute details of the road,
ensuring an incredibly precise journey with millimeter-level accuracy.
This real-time data is a critical component, continuously
transmitted to the train operators, who rely on this information to make swift,
informed decisions, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and seamless navigation of
this revolutionary mode of transportation. This groundbreaking approach not
only redefines the conventional idea of trains but also paves the way for a new
era of flexible, urban transit systems.
Cost comparison and implementation
Implementing this transport scheme costs just 25 percent of
the subway system’s expenses in China. For example, subway systems in China
have an estimated cost between $57 million to $100 million, while the Rail Bus
network’s construction is estimated to be only 20 percent of this cost. This
inspires urban planners and policymakers worldwide to consider adopting this
efficient transportation solution.
Eco-friendly and cost-effective
Positioned as a cheaper alternative to current
transportation systems in China, the electric Rail Bus requires only ten
minutes of charging to cover 25 kilometres. This cost-effective and sustainable
solution can reach speeds of up to 43 miles per hour and has a lifespan of
around 25 years.
Prospects
CRRC envisions full automation of the trains in the future.
While a driver is present in the compartments, their intervention is minimal,
reducing traffic congestion on roads significantly.
Features
The Rail Bus network commenced operations in early 2018, with each Rail Bus capable of accommodating up to 300 passengers. This unique mode of transport represents a significant step toward the future of sustainable and efficient urban transportation.
Other unique concepts
China leads among developing economies in innovative
transportation. Concepts like those released in 2016, even if unrealized,
showcase China’s commitment to offering unique modes of transport, such as the
Rail Bus. There are only four stations along the 3.1-kilometer stretch where
the electric train operates. The train was recently automated and has been in
regular service since 2018. There are only four stations along the
3.1-kilometer stretch where the electric train operates. The train was recently
automated and has been in regular service since 2018.
A surprising fact to know!
Now that you have learned about the train that runs in China without a railway track let’s learn something more interesting. Do you know about the countries which do not have a railway track? These countries do not have a public railway network system, which is a surprising fact because trains are considered to be one of the most supportive systems of transportation. These countries are Bhutan, Iceland, Libya, Guinea-Bissau, Cyprus, and Andorra.