China: Global Debut of “SkyRail” in Shenzhen
On October 13th, the global debut of “SkyRail”, a monorail system from bus, car and battery manufacturer, BYD, was held in Shenzhen at its headquarters. SkyRail is a strategic solution introduced by BYD to counter traffic congestion in cities around the world while also offering more convenient mobility to urban residents. Developed as part of BYD’s five-year RMB 5 billion R&D project, the unveiling marks the company’s entry into the multi-trillion yuan mass transit market.
At the launch ceremony, BYD President and Chairman, Wang Chuanfu, said:
“Mass transit systems are an indispensable solution to alleviate traffic congestion in cities.”“As a rail transport option with relatively smaller passenger capacity, ‘SkyRail’ can complement existing public transport systems to create a layered transport system encompassing underground, roadway and elevated elements. At the same time, SkyRail provides urban residents with safe, comfortable and fast mobility while making a real difference to alleviate traffic congestion. BYD is the first privately run Chinese company to enter the mass transit market.”
As a mass transit alternative with relatively smaller passenger capacity, “SkyRail” delivers numerous benefits, including: capital expenditure 80% lower than metro, construction period two-thirds shorter than metro, excellent topographic adaptability due to higher climbing ability and smaller turning radius, reduced noise to allow travel through architectural complexes, visual integration into the cityscape thanks to transparent bridges and independent right of way, flexible management to allow for capacity between 10,000 to 30,000 passengers an hour (each way) and a high speed of up to 80km/h. It is very applicable to small and medium sized cities, heavy traffic routes, CBD’s and routes connecting tourist attractions in large cities.
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