Author(s)

M. Castangia & L. Guala

Abstract

This paper describes the model simulation of a Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) network for the project of a \“carbon neutral” town. The challenges faced were many: a new, largely unproven technology, a high number of stations, and a very concentrated peak demand. A mixed approach was used for the simulation: a \“traditional” static model for the simulation of large scale effects and a dynamic model with new software specifically designed to simulate PRT systems. The final model was a combination of modelling and forecasting techniques. Several scenarios were tested, the results of the modelling runs allowed to define the performance of the system, a metric for the Level of Service (LoS) of the PRT system as well as a Group Rapid Transit (GRT) strategy to cope with peak demand. The first lot of this PRT system is now operational: it is the first PRT system in the world in commercial operation. Keywords: Personal Rapid Transit, PRT, Group Rapid Transit, traffic simulation, transport network, carbon neutral city, transport model, level of service, LOS, dynamic model. 1 Introduction In December 2006, a call for tender for the master-plan of a carbon-free town in the Middle East was issued. The initiative was daring and the task challenging: a town for 50,000 inhabitants and business activities that would not generate carbon dioxide nor waste. Energy should come entirely from carbon-free, renewable sources, water and waste should be recycled and reused. All the comforts of a modern lifestyle should be guaranteed to residents and workers. Systematica (www.systematica.net) was invited by a major European architecture firm to submit a bid; our role was to define a transport strategy that would respond to the severe and exacting requirements of the tender.

Keywords

Personal Rapid Transit, PRT, Group Rapid Transit, traffic simulation, transport network, carbon neutral city, transport model, level of service, LOS, dynamic model