UKTram Board explores Coventry VLR developments

Last week, UKTram Board members had the opportunity to visit Coventry’s Very Light Rail (VLR) demonstration site, to experience first-hand the progress being made on this innovative transport concept.

Hosted by Coventry City Council, the visit included a ride on the 220-metre demonstration track along Queen Victoria Road, a key milestone in showcasing the potential of VLR technology.  

The Coventry VLR project aims to offer a more cost-effective, sustainable alternative to traditional tram systems, with features such as lightweight, battery-powered vehicles and modular track designs that reduce construction costs and utility diversions. 

During the visit, the group was briefed on Coventry’s ambitions to extend the demonstration line towards the technology park in Parkside, thanks to the Department for Transport’s recent funding boost of £12 million.  

Longer-term plans include developing up to four additional routes, connecting key destinations such as the hospital, university, investment zones and Coventry Airport. 

Speaking after the visit, UKTram Managing Director, James Hammett, commented: 

“UKTram is committed to supporting the development of VLR as an innovative addition to the light rail sector, working to help understand the benefits and challenges of integrating this technology into the broader transport landscape’’ 

As the demonstration continues, public testing will provide insights into passenger experience and operational performance, supporting the city’s ambition to develop a fully integrated VLR network in the future. 

A huge thank you to Nicola Small, Dr Christopher Micallef, Angus Brummitt-Brown and Colin Knight for the presentations. It was a great experience witnessing the progress and innovation driving the VLR project. 

Nicola Small, Very Light Rail Programme Director for Coventry City Council and Transport for West Midlands Non Executive Board Director said:  

“It’s been an absolute delight to host UKTram and showcase the CVLR track and vehicle. Everybody's experienced a short ride on the 220M test track which has been installed to prove out installation methodology. I hope they enjoyed their experience.’’

UKTram remains committed to sharing best practice and supporting its members in evaluating innovative transport solutions that could complement existing light rail networks and advance public transport.