2getthere continues to lead the Automated Transit Networks industry with several major innovations being introduced in the 3rd generation Group Rapid Transit (GRT) system. The changes result directly from the experiences gathered with the existing Rivium system (the Netherlands) and the Personal Rapid Transit application at Masdar City (Abu Dhabi).
The 3rd generation GRT system will feature all-wheel steering, allowing for even better control of the vehicle and shorter radii in addition to being able to ‘crab’ (drive sideways) at stations. Hence the space required for docking at berths is reduced, with new configuration options becoming feasible. 2getthere CEO Carel van Helsdingen: ‘The all-wheel steering configuration is not new to us, but it is new to our people movers. It provides us another degree of freedom when designing the application based on the customer requirements’.
‘In addition the innovation now provides us with the ability to create a completely bi-directional vehicle. This avoids a turning loop being required in an application with a linear configuration (pinched loop) to reverse direction and optimizes the footprint of the system. With the system being capable of 5,000 passengers per hour per direction, it is an affordable alternative to the heavier Automated People Mover systems’. Along with the bi-directional capability of the GRT vehicle, 2getthere introduces doors on both sides of the vehicle and the ability to operate at a higher maximum speed – with the design requirement being at 60km/h or higher.
The GRT vehicle will also feature a 400V electric system, rather than the 96V electric system featured in the 2nd generation. This is in line with the systems applied in electric cars, allowing to benefit from the components being developed for such. 2getthere is also planning on using the latest battery technology. It has shown a much better efficiency ensuring vehicles remain available without recharging for a prolonged period of time, while also increasing the battery life.‘We really want to raise the bar and continue to lead in the Automated Transit Networks industry. We are convinced that these innovations will position the GRT vehicle as the preferred system of choice for many applications, especially applications requiring up to 2,500pphpd,’ states Van Helsdingen.
The release of the design specifications comes with the development of the third generation Group Rapid Transit system having commenced earlier this year. In January the design of the new vehicle, realized in close cooperation with the renowned Italian automotive design company Zagato Milano, was already released.
The new GRT vehicle has been offered for applications in Asia, the Middle East and Europe, drawing excellent reviews from potential customers both on the design and its capabilities.