Coventry University’s Research Centre for Future Transport and Cities is contributing to the development of Coventry’s Very Light Rail (CVLR) system by helping to assess public responses to the new transport mode.

The centre will gather and analyse feedback from passengers using the city’s CVLR demonstrator.

The Coventry Very Light Rail initiative aims to introduce a rail-based mass transit system that is designed to be less costly and faster to install than traditional tram networks. The scheme is led by Coventry City Council and funded by the Department for Transport through the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and the council.

Coventry Very Light Rail Demonstrator

© Coventry University

A 220-metre section of CVLR track has already been installed in Coventry city centre. This is the first time the track has been laid in a live urban environment. Battery-powered vehicles operating on the track feature a novel steering system designed to navigate tighter corners and shallower track depths than conventional systems, helping to reduce the need for moving underground utilities during construction.

Researchers from Coventry University will conduct surveys and interviews with some of the 2,000 people who have registered to ride the demonstrator. Their findings will be compiled into a report offering recommendations for the next stages of the CVLR programme. The study will examine public perceptions of the system and its potential to support local transport needs.

Professor Paul Herriotts, of the Research Centre for Future Transport and Cities, said:

We are a world-renowned centre in the development of human centred transport, whether that be very light rail or flying taxis, we’re excited to be playing a leading role in shaping this exciting transport solution in Coventry.

This is the first time such a rail system has been developed for a city of Coventry’s size and we’re very proud to be playing our part in its development. We are actively engaged in challenge- led research with and for a number of external partners, which not only benefits them but also helps shape our teaching and helps us prepare our students for the workplace.

The CVLR aims to offer a reliable and environmentally sustainable mode of transport that complements the city’s existing bus services. If successful, the system could be deployed in other medium-sized urban areas in the UK and internationally.

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