Pakistan: Trackless electric trams set to launch in two more cities

Dubai: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced plans to launch Pakistan’s first trackless electric tram in two other major cities of Punjab.

The tram system — known as the Super Autonomous Rapid Transit (SART)-- will soon be expanded to Faisalabad and Gujranwala, following a successful public road test in Lahore.

The roll-out marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s urban mobility and climate-friendly transport strategy.

Last week, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam boarded the country’s first fully electric, trackless tram for an experimental ride from Raiwind Road to Muslim Town. She was accompanied by Punjab Transport Minister Bilal Akbar, who briefed her on the tram’s technology and capabilities as it navigated through live city traffic.

Developed by Norinco International, the SART tram is a zero-emission, driver-assisted electric vehicle that operates without traditional tracks. It uses Virtual Track Technology — a system of sensors, GPS, and digital mapping — to travel along standard roadways, eliminating the need for expensive rail infrastructure.

Each SART tram can carry up to 320 passengers in three spacious, air-conditioned compartments, with the option to add a fourth coach to accommodate over 400 passengers. A locally assembled model — currently under development — offers a capacity of up to 250 passengers, tailored to specific routes and city configurations.

The trams include air-conditioned interiors, CCTV cameras, Wi-Fi connectivity, and smart displays. With seating for more than 100 and standing room for over 200, the vehicles are designed for high-volume urban corridors. A full battery charge allows the tram to run for up to 40 kilometres, while fast-charging stations can deliver 27 kilometres of range in just 10 minutes.

“This is a proud moment for Pakistan. The SART system is not just a technological advancement, but a leap toward inclusive, sustainable cities,” Chief Minister Maryam said earlier during the test run ride.

The initiative is expected to relieve traffic congestion, reduce emissions, and modernise public transport in densely populated urban centres. Unlike traditional trains or BRT systems, these trams operate within existing road infrastructure — making them ideal for cities with space constraints and traffic challenges.