Plans unveiled for new very light rail service
Plans for a very light rail service in Coventry have moved a step closer with researchers from WMG at the University of Warwick unveiling early vehicle concept designs.
The project, funded by the Local Growth Fund through the Coventry and Warwickshire LEP and West Midlands Combined Authority devolution deal, aims to better connect the city.
The rail system, designed and built in the UK, promises to be cheaper, quieter and more environmentally friendly than anything currently available.
WMG showcased the plans to representatives of Coventry City Council, including Cllrs Jim O’Boyle and David Welsh.
Nick Mallinson, James Winnett and Darren Hughes, all from WMG, said the plans had been developed with a local company through an initial feasibility study.
Tram cars such as those used on the Midland Metro are currently imported from Europe at great cost, typically around £3m for each vehicle.
The WMG very light rail project seeks to significantly reduce these costs by developing a UK supply chain for the manufacture of lightweight rail vehicles and tracks, which would enable local authorities to install new community rail services and reduce congestion more easily.
The small rail vehicles will have the capability to operate autonomously without a driver, which will also reduce operational costs and enable more frequent services.
The vehicles will be battery operated using rapid charging solutions and therefore will not require overhead cables.
WMG, and Warwick’s School of Engineering, are also developing a novel track solution for the system, which will be lightweight, low cost and easily embedded into roads.
Professor Lord Bhattacharyya, chairman of WMG, said: “Delivering research and innovation for the creation of technological solutions and the expansion of British manufacturing has always been at the heart of WMG. I am delighted that Coventry is adopting this cutting-edge very light rail technology, which will benefit the city and will set a new trend for urban public transport.”
It is planned that the first demonstrator vehicle will be assembled by spring 2019 and then tested at the soon-to-be-built Hub to Home Transport Innovation Centre in Dudley.
