Source: Moscow Mayor
In the initial phase, a driver is still present at the controls. But within the depot, it operates completely autonomously.
The city has begun testing this first innovative transport, and during the test phase, it will run on the 10th tram route without passengers.
Here are a few facts about this high-tech project:
- In the initial phase, the tram driver is in the cabin, and the system replicates almost all of their actions. It corrects human errors automatically.
- The new transport is equipped with the most advanced LiDAR systems, providing highly accurate location data and a 360-degree view.
- The tram anticipates obstacles and stops in time if someone steps onto the tracks.
- The software is developed by metro specialists without involving external companies. This unmanned technology is a unique European development owned by the Moscow Government.
Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin initiated the first phase of launching the unmanned tram with a driver and a system that duplicates their actions. Initially, the new transport will operate on the streets of the city without passengers.
In the next phase, by the end of 2024, the tram will begin fully controlling the driving process in test mode, with the driver serving as a backup. In the third and final phase, by the end of 2025, we plan to launch a fully unmanned tram without a driver at the controls for passenger trips, – said Deputy Mayor for Transport Maksim Liksutov.
