Autonomous tram coming to Indonesia's new capital Nusantara in July, says Transport Minister

JAKARTA, July 13 (Bernama-ANTARA) --Indonesian Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi announced that the autonomous rail transit (ART) tram is set to arrive in Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan by the end of this month.

He mentioned during a review of ART tracks in North Penajam Paser, East Kalimantan, that operations are slated to begin in August 2024, according to ANTARA news agency.

According to him, the autonomous tram was dispatched from China in early July. The ship carrying the autonomous tram will arrive at Balikpapan Port.

The minister, in a statement issued here, explained that upon their arrival in Nusantara, the tram's components will be assembled and tested.

Then, joint testing will be conducted, followed by the implementation of a proof of concept (POC) in August. The showcase is planned from October to December.

"Hopefully this schedule can be realised according to plan, and the autonomous tram in Nusantara can really inspire other cities in Indonesia in terms of developing smart transportation," he said.

He added that the autonomous tram is a leap in the use of new technology in the world of transportation in Indonesia.

He explained that the autonomous tram works on batteries, and its operation is guided by reading road markings via sensors, making it an effective means to cut greenhouse gas emissions and fossil energy use.

Sumadi further explained that the texture of the road that will be passed by the tram will be very smooth. This will provide comfort to passengers.

It has also been determined that the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing will build stops to support autonomous tram operations.

"The tram stops that will be built will not only be used as a place to pick up and drop off passengers but will also function as a place for charging," he said.

He added that the train set that is being brought to Indonesia consists of three trains.- Bernama-ANATARA