Astana's Modern LRT: First Driverless Trains Arrive from China

Astana's LRT Expansion: First Driverless Trains Arrive from China Astana, Kazakhstan is on the cusp of a significant upgrade to its public transportation system. The first two of nineteen state-of-the-art, driverless trains destined for the city's Light Rail Transit (LRT) line have been shipped from Tangshan, China. This marks a major step forward in the development of Astana's modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation network. These aren't your average trains. Manufactured by CRRC Tangshan, one of China's leading railway companies, each four-section train boasts a passenger capacity of 650. The design incorporates innovative features, including lightweight, eco-friendly materials that reduce weight by 15% and noise levels by 3 decibels, while also lowering energy consumption by 10%. The interior is ergonomically designed for passenger comfort, with intelligent climate control and a harmonious color scheme. "Modern four-section driverless trains of the fourth level of automation accommodate up to 650 passengers each," stated a press release from City Transportation Systems. The remaining seventeen trains are slated for delivery before the end of the year, with test runs of the new LRT line scheduled to begin in September 2025. The project's commitment to sustainability and technological advancement positions Astana as a leader in urban transportation development in Central Asia. The successful delivery of these trains signals a bright future for Astana's public transit system, promising efficient and comfortable travel for its citizens.