2getthere and Hsin-Chu Seamless Joint Co., Ltd. (Hsin-Jie) signed a Memorandum of Understanding on January 30th in regard to the realization of the Hsinchu GRT connection.
The MOU is a next step towards the realization of the connection between the local rail stations, Tsing Hha University and Hsinchu Science Park.
The system features 11 stations and will be able to handle 4,800 passengers per hour. To ensure the highest service levels to passengers, four different service lines are defined, with frequencies ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 minutes. The main locations within the system are served by an express line ensuring the shortest possible travel time.
Hsin-Jie is engaged in managing, financing, realizing and operating of the PRT/GRT Project in Hsinchu, Taiwan. CEO Chia Feng Shih commented: ‘There is a very clear need for a feeder system in this area of Hsinchu. As Hsin-Jie we are eager to realize the system and contribute to the accessibility of the city and the improvement of local mobility. The system will allow passengers to get to their destination efficiently, reducing the congestion on local roads and improving the living environment in the process.’
On behalf of 2getthere the MOU was signed by its CEO Carel van Helsdingen. He indicated: ‘The MOU is an important step towards the realization of the system. Our local representative, Land Network, and we have co-operated closely to get to this stage, but by no means can we consider the work complete now. We will continue working together with the local authorities, Hsin-Jie and other contractors towards the final contract, allowing us to start with the actual realization of this service to the local residents, employees and visitors of Hsinchu.’
2getthere will deploy its 3rd generation GRT vehicle for the application. The vehicle features an iconic design, accommodating up to 25 passengers. The vehicles feature air-conditioning and automated doors with a wide opening to accommodate wheelchairs. The GRT will be fully electrical. The vehicles are completely driverless and automatically guided by 2getthere’s proven magnet based navigation system. The maximum speed will be 40 km/hr.
To achieve the required capacity of 4,800 passengers per hour and the realization of the system and the service level to passengers, a fleet size of 55 GRT vehicles is required.
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding preceded a symposium with various presentations from contributors to the Hsinchu GRT connection. Carel van Helsdingen presented on behalf of 2getthere.
Also see the report on the site of Hsinchu County Government.