Source: Trackless Tram, City of Stirling
By Justin Di Giulio
4 October 2023
On the 23rd of September 2023, the cityscape of Stirling transformed as it embraced Australia's very first Trackless Tram, a state-of-the-art transport marvel sourced from Shanghai, China. Now stationed for testing at the City’s Administration Centre, this 30-metre vehicle isn't merely a transport one-off indulgence; it potentially heralds a new age of sustainable transit for Australia.
As the pilot program takes off, Curtin University, along with other esteemed partners, collaborates with the City of Stirling in what might become the template for modern Australian transit. Perth yet again showcases its commitment to forging unique and forward-thinking transport pathways.
Key contributors such as Curtin University, ITSG, CRRC, and Shanghai Electric are at the helm of this initiative, providing expertise to ensure a meticulous assessment of the trackless tram. The primary objective? To evaluate its performance and determine its viability along the vibrant Scarborough Beach Road and the broader Scarborough Beach activity centre zone.
Source: Trackless Tram, PerthNow.
Here's a snapshot of what makes this tram a notable entrant in Stirling's transport landscape:
Innovation and Flexibility: Absent of restricting tracks, the Trackless Tram is a paradigm of versatility. This promises a transport solution that can evolve in tandem with the city's dynamic needs.
Sustainability at its Core: Embodying the ethos of a net-zero emission vehicle, this tram aligns perfectly with Stirling's eco-conscious aspirations. Its adoption symbolises a stride towards reducing vehicle congestion and carbon footprint.
Uniting the Urban Landscape: Set to become an integral part of the Scarborough Beach Road Activity Corridor, the tram promises enhanced connectivity, urban rejuvenation, and unparalleled accessibility.
The Big Picture: With Stirling leading the charge, the Trackless Tram's success could redefine urban commuting, change housing trends and perceptions to public transport not just in Perth but across the entire nation. It offers a holistic solution encompassing not just transit but urban revitalisation and strengthened community ties.
As the tram's integration progresses, Stirling's inhabitants and key stakeholders will soon get an opportunity to board this revolutionary mode of transport. Their firsthand experiences and feedback will be invaluable.
For enthusiasts keen on delving deeper into sustainable transit, the upcoming Net Zero Transit Symposium on 21st and 22nd November at Rendezvous Scarborough promises enlightening insights.
With a robust backing of a $2 million investment from the Australian Government and expertise pooled in from Curtin University, CRRC, Shanghai Electric, and Infrastructure Technology Solutions, the horizon of transit in Australia looks distinctly bright. Stay tuned to Stirling's dedicated portal for updates on the Trackless Tram's journey.
This trial carries not just the hopes of Stirling but potentially sets the stage for other local governments eyeing the option of trackless tram such as Wyndham City Council in a solution for Derrimut Road to connect the proposed Tarneit Major Activity Centre and in doing so bypass heavy investments in conventional tram infrastructure.
Is the future trackless? Source: City of Wyndham
References
Brown, T. (2022, March 31). Stirling to welcome trackless tram as part of Australian-first trial with Curtin University. PerthNow - Stirling. https://www.perthnow.com.au/local-news/perthnow-stirling/stirling-to-welcome-trackless-tram-as-part-of-australian-first-trial-with-curtin-university-c-6205032
City of Stirling. (2023, September 23). Trackless Tram arrives in Stirling. https://www.stirling.wa.gov.au/your-city/news/2023/september-%281%29/trackless-tram-arrives-in-stirling
Wyndham City Council. (nd). The photomontage of potential future development and streetscape scenario of Derrimut Road Boulevard. The Loop. https://theloop.wyndham.vic.gov.au/wyndham-plan/4-derrimut-road-boulevard#lg=9079&slide=0