SmartRail 1. innovation phase

The goal of the SmartRail Ecosystem is to become the most attractive provider of tram-integrated functions and services in the international market, with cities implementing a sustainable and user-centric transport system as the main target. The technological focus is to implement the world's best tram for passenger and lifecycle services and to produce solutions that increase the safety and flexibility of trams towards autonomous transport.

In the 1st innovation phase, which will be implemented in 2019-2021, the ecosystem will focus on tram automation solutions and information systems, simulations supporting design and modelling, and ecosystem-based business.

In the ecosystem, VTT acts as an innovation partner for the anchor company Skoda Transtech and as a coordinator of research projects. Tampereen Raitiotie Oy and the City of Helsinki Transport Department enable various experiments in Tampere and the Helsinki metropolitan area. The other project partners in this phase are Mevea, 3D Talo, Tampereen Raitiotie, Business Tampere, the City of Tampere, the City of Helsinki Transport Department, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences and Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology.

SmartRail's 2nd innovation phase will start in early 2020 with proactive situational awareness, user-centric solutions and impact as the main themes. The 3rd innovation phase, which focuses on tram-related transport and mobility services, is scheduled to start in 2021.