Ricardo to supply trains for planned maglev rail in Orlando

Engineering firm Ricardo announced yesterday that it will provide passenger train cars to technology developer American Maglev Technology Inc. (AMT) for a planned magnetic-levitation (maglev) rail system between the Orlando Convention Center and nearby hotels.

Slated for completion by 2017, the $400 million project will include six or seven stations, according to the Orlando Business Journal. One station will be placed at the Orlando International Airport's Intermodal Transportation Facility, and several others will be along Orlando's International Drive, the paper said.

The project is designed to reduce traffic congestion and provide a new transportation option for visitors in the area, according to a Ricardo press release.

The cars utilize AMT's magnetically-levitated and electric propulsion systems, which in turn makes them quieter than traditional rail systems, the Ricardo press release said.

"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," Ricardo President Clive Wotton said.

Founded in 1994 and funded by private investments, AMT will coordinate the project with its subsidiary Environmental Mitigation and Mobility Initiative, according to a Ricardo statement.

The Florida Department of Transportation first approved AMT's project in May 2014.