RailAdventure UK, a specialist transport company in the West Midlands, will operate the Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) vehicle for the on-road test in the city centre in May and June this year.
CVLR is a new and innovative transportation system that is using the region’s advanced automotive expertise to provide a flexible and affordable alternative to traditional light rail. It features a modern vehicle and a unique, revolutionary track design, aiming to offer a reliable, frequent, and eco-friendly ‘hop-on, hop-off’ service for Coventry residents.
RailAdventure UK has earned its reputation by providing support services for rail operations, moving trains, testing them, and running passenger services. The company has now secured the contract that will see a father-and-son team driving the vehicle and its passengers on the 220-metre demonstration track.
Councillor Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration, and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said: “This is a significant step in our ongoing testing of Very Light Rail, and it’s fantastic that we’re working with RailAdventureUK to demonstrate this innovative model and prove the benefits it will bring to Coventry.
“Very Light Rail is just the beginning of our plans to revolutionise transport in our city, tackle climate change, improve air quality, and provide a reliable and accessible travel option.
“We will be running Very Light Rail for four weeks, and residents will have the opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind vehicle and track system and provide feedback on the experience.
“I look forward to travelling in our vehicle on our track and encourage all residents to sign up when available. Details of how to apply will be made available on the council website soon.”
Kevin Walker, Managing Director of RailAdventure UK, said: “This project is a perfect fit for RailAdventure – it’s local, innovative, and uses our operational expertise and passion for bringing new ideas to life! Our local teams will be working on this test.
“With our experience as a rail operator, including battery-powered traction, we are excited to showcase why we believe there is a strong future for this type of operation. We look forward to playing a role in shaping it.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands and West Midlands Combined Authority chair, said: “Very light rail is a revolutionary technology being developed and delivered here in our region – so it’s right that the operator for this first test track should be a West Midlands company.
“The speed at which we can move from starting work to running a tram through Coventry city centre shows the world how fast and efficiently a tram system can be installed. CVLR will play a huge role in delivering on my vision to connect more communities with affordable and accessible public transport.”
Graham Dibbins, Train Driver at RailAdventure, said: “It’s an extraordinary feeling to be involved in such an innovative project and at the same time to be working with my son for the first time in a professional capacity as train drivers.”
Joe Dibbins, Train Driver at RailAdventure, said: “It seems unbelievable that I am working with the one person I respect more than anyone else – my dad. The fact that Coventry Very Light Rail is so technologically advanced is simply the icing on the cake.”
The West Midlands Combined Authority funds CVLR through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement.
During the four-week test, members of the public and other stakeholders will have the opportunity to experience CVLR between Greyfriars Road and Queen Victoria Road and provide feedback. Coventry City Council is leading this groundbreaking project to create the city’s first route. In the long term, the Council plans to establish a network of routes around Coventry.
More information about Coventry Very Light Rail
Image credit: RailAdventure
