Coventry is at the forefront of transport innovation with the introduction of a 'cutting edge' travel system that could transform public transport in the West Midlands, Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood has been told.
Mr Lightwood visited Coventry during Better Transport Week to experience the Very Light Rail (VLR) project.
Riders have for the past month enjoyed complimentary trips on a 220-metre demonstrator track in the city centre, designed to test the new tram system in a practical environment. VLR boasts construction costs that are significantly lower than traditional tram systems and can be implemented much faster while delivering comparable advantages.
Coventry City Council leads the innovative project, receiving funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority's (WMCA) City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement. Collaborators on this groundbreaking technology include WMG at Warwick University and the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre based in BCIMO, Dudley.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker said: "This is a proud moment for the West Midlands, demonstrating our global leadership in transport innovation.
"This successful trial of our cutting-edge tram technology, designed and developed right here in the region, paves the way for the quick delivery of a network in Coventry and has the potential to revolutionise public transport for millions worldwide."
Local Transport Minister, Mr Lightwood, said: "Coventry's Very Light Rail project shows how innovative approaches to transport ideas can drive growth, create high-skilled jobs, and breathe new life into our towns and cities.
"Better Transport Week highlights how government backing is transforming transport, helping local economies thrive, supporting jobs, and connecting people to opportunity – all part of delivering our Plan for Change."
Meanwhile, Ben Plowden, chief executive of the Campaign for Better Transport, added: "Good public transport networks help connect us to the people we love, the things we need and the places that matter.
"Tram and light rail networks are key to an accessible, affordable, integrated and green public transport network."
Councillor Jim O'Boyle, responsible for jobs, regeneration, and climate change at Coventry City Council, said: "The feedback from the public and technical representatives has been incredible.
"We aren't just piloting technology; we are building confidence in a scalable model that puts climate, community, and cost-effectiveness at the heart of urban mobility.
"This system will create jobs for local people and this is just the beginning of our plans to put Very Light Rail at the heart of the growing green economy here in Coventry."
