The latest addition to the country’s public transport system, the Automatic Rapid Transit (ART) began its trial operation on Al Khor Expressway yesterday.
His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, accompanied by some other ministers and senior officials, was among the first ones to experience the newly-launched ART.
The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) had announced earlier last week that the ART will continue on trial for a specific period until the Ministry has fully assessed its functionality, performance, among other factors, to ensure it fits Qatar’s weather conditions.
The ART system is an innovative, modern and environment-friendly transit mode.
Equipped with intelligent controls, the rail-less system is primarily used for transport within cities.
يجمع نظام النقل السريع الأتوماتيكي بين مزايا القطارات والحافلات والترام ويعمل وفق أحدث الأنظمة والتقنيات لتقديم أرقى الخدمات#قطر#Qatar
— المواصلات والاتصالات (@MOTC_QA) July 15, 2019
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With the absence of rails, ART vehicles use sensors that help their drivers to follow their virtual rail on road.
The customized modern interior and exterior design of the ART takes into account the needs of people with disabilities.
ART vehicles come with bi-directional driving mode and a speed of up to 70km/h. The vehicle can accommodate as many as 307 passengers.
The system is powered by electricity and provides a range of 25kilometers with only 10 minutes of quick charging and 70kilometers with 3 hours of full charging.
The three-module vehicle is 32 meters long and has the same width as a normal bus.
HE the Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti said, "This transit mode, if the test operation is successful, will support the diversification of transportation sector in Qatar through using the world's latest transportation system.”
تعرف على أبرز مزايا نظام النقل السريع الأتوماتيكي#قطر#Qatar
— المواصلات والاتصالات (@MOTC_QA) July 15, 2019
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“It will also offer a distinct and unique experience during the various events Qatar hosts, particularly the FIFA World Cup 2022 as it will be an exceptional experience for fans and visitors with high-quality services that provide smooth mobility to stadiums, residences, and tourist attractions," added the Minister.
He further mentioned that the ART system uses quick-charge batteries, which will contribute to saving costs.
This initiative complements MOTC's efforts to provide a world-class, multimodal integrated transportation system that connects all regions in Qatar.
It is in line with the pillars of the Qatar National Vision 2030, supporting the public to reach all vital areas easily with safe and reliable services.
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