The China-developed Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (ART) system, currently in trial operation in Indonesia’s new capital, offers advantages such as lower construction costs, shorter project durations and greater flexibility.
Its high capacity and zero-carbon emissions are expected to help reduce future traffic congestion and environmental pollution in Nusantara.
NUSANTARA, Indonesia, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) — Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Tuesday took a test drive of the China-developed Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit (ART) system in the Southeast Asian country’s new capital.
The ART system in Nusantara, a joint project between the Chinese CRRC Group and NORINCO International, is currently in trial operation here.
Earlier, at a meeting with governors, mayors and regents in Nusantara on the same day, Widodo made a cost comparison between ART and conventional rail systems, pointing out that the ART system was significantly cheaper.
“Autonomous rail transport is actually cheaper because it does not require rails and uses magnets. The price per unit for three carriages is about 74 billion rupees (about $4.7 million),” he explained, comparing this to the rising costs of Mass Rapid Transit and Light Rail Transit systems.
He expressed his belief that ART could provide a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional rail systems in Indonesia, especially in cities where traffic congestion is increasing.
“The ART system is an example of China’s high-tech achievements and is already in commercial use in several Chinese cities and in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. We will continue to promote the system in Indonesia and other international markets, contributing to the development of global green transportation,” said Wang Xiaobing, Vice President of NORINCO International.
“On Saturday this week, the ART system will be unveiled at the celebrations of Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day,” Wang added.
According to Wang, the ART system integrates advanced technologies such as virtual routes, BeiDou navigation, autonomous driving and pure battery operation.
Compared to conventional trams with similar capacity, the ART system offers advantages such as lower construction costs, shorter project timelines and greater flexibility. In addition, its high capacity and zero carbon emissions are expected to help reduce future traffic congestion and environmental impacts in Nusantara.
Over the next two months, NORINCO International and CRRC Group will continue the trial operation of the ART system. The Indonesian Ministry of Transport will conduct comprehensive technical tests and evaluations and, based on the results, the companies will make the necessary optimizations to ensure the smooth operation of the system in Indonesia.
As the general contractor for CRRC’s rail transport system and exclusive partner for ART in Indonesia, NORINCO International is working closely with the CRRC Group to ensure the successful implementation of the ART system in Nusantara.■
