His Excellency (H.E.) the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani witnessed the test operation of the Automatic Rapid Transit (ART) System conducted by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) on the Al Khor Expressway. A number of ministers and senior officials were also present, as reported by MOTC.
The trial in Qatar for the ART system is the first in the world after China, where it has been manufactured and is being used.
Video source: MOTC
H.E. Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti has pointed out the ART System is scheduled to be operational within the next 15 - 16 months, after it has undergone several testing stages before its launch; the most important of which is ensuring the safety and security of passengers. In this framework, many tests are carried out over different periods of time to ensure safety and security to ensure Qatar's leadership in security and safety standards.
ART is an innovative, modern and environment-friendly public transport system. With intelligent controls and an integration of integrates electrical and mechanical systems and also quick-charge batteries, ART is a rail-less system for urban transport which combines the advantages of trains, buses and trams and works according to the latest systems and technologies to provide the finest services.
In other words, it’s the first 'train' in the world, that doesn’t run on rail tracks, but instead, uses virtual dotted lines on the road to move forward, but is also able to adapt to the surroundings and real-time road and traffic situations.
Learn about the most important features of ART.
It is made up of three carriages. Its exterior, which is made up of individual, fixed sections that are joined together with the help of articulated gangways, gives it the appearance of a rubber-tyred tram, although it has the flexibility to move around like a normal articulated bus.
The interior is comfortable and has the capacity to hold 307 passengers. There are baby andd mother priority seats and spaces for passengers with disabilities
It is 32 metres long and has the same width as a normal bus.
It is built with a bi-directional mode driving mode, it can travel at 70 kilometres (km) an hour. It is powered by electricity and provides a range of 25km with only 10 minutes of quick charging and 70km with three hours of full charging.
It features a customised exterior and interior design that takes into account the needs of people with disabilities.
This system aids in guiding this transport system to keep running on its track and also gives a warning if it drifts away from its lane.
These mirrors are electrically adjustable, give a clear view of the rear and are equipped with auto dimming technology to reduce any glare.
This system helps the driver keep a safe distance from other vehicles on the road and if, at any point, the proximity reduces, a warning sign is given.
This navigation facility analyses the route on which this transport system is travelling and re-directs for a different route to avoid traffic congestion.
It will help ease congestion of traffic in Doha
Development, construction ad maintenance costs are low, so is maintenance and construction time is short.
It is environmentally-friendly and eco-friendly, and there are no fumes because it runs on battery power
The Art system will support the diversification of transportation sector in Qatar through using the world’s latest transportation system with advanced technology. This contributes to achieving economic and environmental balance in the transportation sector’s infrastructure projects.
It would also offer an exceptional experience for fans and visitors during the FIFA World Cup 2022 with high-quality services that provide smooth mobility to stadiums, residences and tourist spots.
This initiative comes within MOTC’s endeavors to providing a world-class, multi-modal integrated transportation system that connects all areas and regions in Qatar, helping the public to reach to all vital areas easily with safe and reliable services in line with the pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030, in addition to its significant contribution to developing transportation modes in Qatar according to latest eco-friendly universal systems and deploying alternative and clean energy in the industry to reduce harmful emissions.
What do you think of the ART system? Do you think it will work in Qatar? Will you use it once it becomes operational? Do let us know your thoughts in our Comments section. Like and share the article - it keeps us going!
Follow us on our social media channels:
@ILQlive
@ILQlive
@ILoveQtr
ILoveQatar
You have successfully registered your account!
Please confirm your e-mail address by clicking on the URL sent to you.The e-mail usually arrives in 5-10 minutes.
How ajeeb was that!? Thanks for contributing to our community! Your post will appear after we take a quick look!
