Three futuristic new concept designs revealed for Cambridge Metro

Image courtesy of Dromos Technologies/PriestmanGoode Image courtesy of Egis Image courtesy of Mott MacDonald
Three concepts designs have been put forward for a potential new transport system in and around Cambridge Credit: Images courtesy of Dromos Technologies/PriestmanGoode, Egis and Mott MacDonald

A new metro system for Cambridge and the surrounding area has had three new designs put forward by experts in the transport and technology industry.

The Cambridgeshire Autonomous Metro (CAM) is a new public transport network that was looking for solutions to provide faster, more reliable and environmentally-friendly journeys in the region.

The project, by The Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, has had ideas from Dromos Technologies, Egis and Mott MacDonald for CAM which include ways to benefit the local economy.

Concept design for the CAM metro put forward by Dromos Network Credit: Dromos Technologies/PriestmanGoode

Dromos Technologies have focused their idea on the passenger benefits:

  • 84 stops across the CAM Network.

  • Passengers travel in their own vehicle, without having to share with other people.

  • On-demand 24/7 services.

  • CAM rides can be booked on smart devices or electronic kiosks at stops.

  • Ride availability in under 2 minutes.

  • Large interior space with work tables, wifi and space for bikes and luggage.

  • Non-stop services so journeys are short and reliable.

  • Vehicles and stops will be fully wheelchair accessible.

  • Carbon neutral at the point of use.

  • Options for tunnels and underpasses, elevated lanes or segregated paths - looking at the different needs for urban or rural spaces.

The concept design Egis CAM vehicle for the proposed Cambridge metro network Credit: Egis

Egis has outlined the main goals for their design:

  • Enhanced connectivity by also making improvements for walking and cycling.

  • Integrated first and last mile services.

  • Improved coverage and accessibility to the network.

  • Roadmap to a fully driverless operation.

The Mott MacDonald concept says CAM stations are 'reimagined as community-centred mobility hubs' Credit: Mott MacDonald

Mott MacDonald has outlined ways its plans with a focus on community-based transport that improves the liveability of the region:

  • CAM stations that are reimagined as community-centred hubs. These spaces will serve the specific and evolving needs of the local community.

  • A fully autonomous, battery-powered, two-car vehicle.

  • The vehicle will be fully accessible and provide smooth and fast transport.

  • A bidirectional wheel design to suit the towns, cities and tunnels of Cambridgeshire.

By using local technology and expertise they hope their plan will provide skilled jobs in manufacturing and maintenance.

CAM will also offer around 90 miles of region-wide public transport.

The proposed CAM metro network for Cambridge and the surrounding area from the Mott MacDonald Integrated System Credit: Mott MacDonald