Škoda Transportation is behind the development of the smart tram. At first glance, however, the novelty does not differ dramatically from classic trams – it is fully air-conditioned, allows passengers to get in and out quickly through five double doors on both sides of the vehicle, and of course there is also space to transport prams, wheelchairs or bicycles.
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The main difference, however, is that it is connected to a number of sophisticated systems. “By connecting our smart tram with the city’s intelligent transport system, our vision of urban transport management and development is being fulfilled. We really appreciate that we were able to participate in a project that, using new technologies, will help monitor traffic in the city and optimize it for the needs of all those who are part of it. Our means of transport will become a natural part of the smart cities of the future, ”says Kamil Mrva, Vice President for Digitization and IT at the Škoda Transportation Group.
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With the highest possible safety, the smart tram is equipped with a wide range of sensors that monitor the track and potential obstacles. The entire tram system is connected to fast 5G networks using a unit enabling so-called C2X communication. This would not be possible in the older mobile standard, which was slower.
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“The fastest 5G network is now available in almost two-thirds of Pilsen. It is its key features, such as fast data download and upload or low response, together with high security of data transmission, that are necessary for building and functioning infrastructure that will allow individual smart elements to communicate with each other, “explained Jindřich Fremuth, CEO of O2.
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“Thanks to the vehicle unit, the tram is able to communicate with other elements on its route via the ITS G5 hybrid communication and the mobile 5G network. It will draw attention to, for example, work on the road or the approaching IRS vehicle and will be able to ensure priority passage through a busy intersection, “said Martin Volný, CEO of INTENS Corporation, which tested C2X systems in Pilsen as part of the C-Roads project and will also be responsible for smart mobility development. .
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Without a driver in 2027
However, the first tests will take place in the presence of the driver. If successful, in the following phases, additional sensors in the form of cameras, lidars and radars should be gradually added to the new tram, which can respond to movement faster than the human brain, thus contributing to greater safety for pedestrians and passengers.
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The goal of the whole project is clear – the city officials want a means of transport that can do without a driver. “By 2027, we plan to test the operation of a fully autonomous tram in Pilsen,” said Roman Zarzycký, First Deputy Mayor and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Pilsen Municipal Transport Companies.
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Smart tram in Pilsen
Photo: Škoda Transportation
He also emphasized that although robotic trams are a novelty in the Czech Republic, for example in Potsdam, Germany, they have been testing them since 2018. “Unlike autonomous cars, autopilot in a tram has a much easier job. It moves along the same route, with which it continuously communicates using sensors, and does not have to deal with so many variables that would enter the control. Experience from abroad confirms that thanks to the reduction of human error, transport is really safer and smoother, “added Zarzycký.
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The University of West Bohemia will also participate in the development of smart mobility in Pilsen. In the vicinity of its campus in Borské polky, where fifth-generation networks are already being used thanks to coverage from O2, a living polygon will be created for testing a smart tram. “The project will involve all our technical faculties, ie mechanical, electrical engineering and applied sciences, as well as the NTC research center. We will participate in the development of control systems, sensors and lightweight mechanical structures, “said the Rector of the UWB Miroslav Holeček.
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On Monday, the City of Pilsen, the Pilsen Municipal Transport Companies and the Information Technology Administration of the City of Pilsen signed a memorandum of mutual cooperation with their partners – O2 Czech Republic, INTENS Corporation, Škoda Transportation, Škoda Digital and the University of West Bohemia – with a view to 2027 center for smart mobility and a living laboratory for testing autonomous management in the city.
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