Kuching’s Autonomous Rapid Transit System begins testing

Kuching’s revolutionary autonomous rapid transit (ART) system inches closer to reality as the prototype hydrogen vehicle gears up for its engineering run.

Developed by China’s CRRC Zhuzhou Institute Co Ltd, this pioneering vehicle is set to undergo rigorous testing at the Isthmus from September 4 to October 31.

The forthcoming engineering phase serves to identify potential challenges before the commencement of the proof-of-concept (POC) exercise in Samarahan.

Pioneering engineering run

State Transport Minister Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin revealed that the prototype hydrogen vehicle, assembled after its arrival at Senari Terminal on August 5, will be subjected to meticulous testing along a loop of Jalan Keruing.

This route encompasses prominent landmarks such as Menara LCDA, Menara SEDC, Menara Sarawak Energy, and Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). The tests will provide crucial insights into the vehicle’s performance, potential roadblocks, and improvements needed.

To facilitate the engineering run, specific road sections will be temporarily closed, starting from August 23. The prototype vehicle will be stationed at Kuching Port Authority‘s Pending Terminal until the conclusion of the testing period.

A vision for modern transport

The ART project envisions a revolutionary shift in public transportation, addressing traffic congestion with a zero-emission transport system. The forthcoming POC exercise, slated for November, will take place on a dedicated 3km lane along the Kuching-Samarahan Expressway.

This exercise, designed by Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), seeks to accumulate data for the ART’s final design, aimed at accommodating maximum passenger capacity.

Lee Kim Shin emphasized that while the engineering run and POC exercise are not open to the public, selected stakeholders will have the opportunity to experience the prototype vehicle. He highlighted the importance of testing its performance on Sarawak’s roads.

As the prototype hydrogen vehicle for Kuching’s ART system undergoes testing, a visionary future for public transportation in the region begins to take shape.

Backed by commitment and cooperation between government agencies and Sarawak Metro, the KUTS project aims to mitigate traffic congestion in Greater Kuching. The ART’s zero-emission promise, powered by green hydrogen, aligns with the broader goal of providing a modern, efficient, and reliable public transport service.