Ricardo Inc. has signed a long-term agreement to supply American Maglev Technology Inc. (AMT) with magnetically levitated vehicles for a project to establish a rail system between the Orlando International Airport, the Orlando Convention Center and nearby hotels. Florida Department of Transportation (F-DOT) has agreed to right of ways for connection between the airport and convention center, in addition to a stop near The Florida Mall. The experienced vehicle design and engineering team at Ricardo Inc. will immediately begin work on the lightweight rail car development, with a target to deliver the first two cars to AMT by summer of 2016.
Orlando, FL, is a popular destination for global tourism and conventions. Currently, the most common mode of transportation for visitors between the airport, convention center, nearby hotels and restaurants is by rental car or taxi. The new maglev rail system will reduce traffic congestion and provide convenience and fast transportation for visitors to this area.
Headquartered in Marietta, GA, AMT's transit technology is based upon optimized magnetic levitation and linear induction propulsion that is entirely electric and much quieter than traditional rail systems. Its unique system design integrates the magnets and controls in a lightweight vehicle which allows a more simplified track than other systems currently in commercial operation, and delivers transit systems that serve the needs of the mega-regional transportation sector.
Ricardo, a world leader in delivering innovative engineered solutions, will supply AMT with the rail cars, including design, engineering and integration of the magnetic levitation and propulsion system. "Ricardo's full spectrum of technical capability, including our project management and low-volume vehicle manufacturing will ensure smooth coordination and delivery for this exciting new rail system for Orlando," says Clive Wotton, President of Ricardo Inc.
"We are pleased to have Ricardo as our full service supplier for this project," says Tony Morris, President and CEO of AMT. "Our subsidiary, Environmental Mitigation and Mobility Initiative (EMMI) will coordinate this project. With the F-DOT signatures now in place, EMMI is in the process of completing the remaining agreements necessary with the local government and municipalities."
