A major breakthrough in Brazil's urban transport development has been announced after China's CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles signed a contract to supply 24 advanced metro trains to Belo Horizonte, the sixth largest Brazilian city.
With heavy traffic and limited metro options, the city faces significant public transport challenges. The metro system, which many cities this size rely on, serves only a few stops. Commuters have to take buses, which are not an ideal alternative as they add to traffic congestion.
Now, in a promising partnership with Chinese manufacturers, the bustling city -- home to around 2.5 million residents-- is set to receive new metro trains designed specifically for its unique needs.
"The challenge for me is the heavy traffic. We face traffic in the morning and at night, so we spend a lot of time in traffic," said Luiza Xavier Dos Santos, a commuter.
As the political, economic, and cultural center of Minas Gerais state, Belo Horizonte's transportation system plays a critical role in the state's development.
Recognizing Brazil’s need for better infrastructure, Chinese companies have increasingly contributed to smart city initiatives across the vast South American country, including efforts to improve urban transit in Belo Horizonte.
"China has long been recognized as an important benchmark. The Chinese built a network of 40,000 kilometers of high speed trains in record time, so we are very much inspired by them," said Rafael Benini, Sao Paulo Secretary for Investment Partnership.
On May 28 this year, a significant milestone was reached in Brazil. In a high-profile signing ceremony, CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles signed a major contract to export 24 advanced metro trains to Belo Horizonte.
These trains, capable of automatic operation and speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour, will soon serve both the existing Line 1 and a future Line 2, which is still under construction, helping to alleviate the city's traffic congestion.
"I think Brazil needs more trains. It's a cheap way to travel very comfortable and very good. I would benefit a lot from it. So I am very happy with the news," said Enzo Pauline, another commuter.
The design team at CRRC Changchun has customized these metro trains specifically for Belo Horizonte. With a focus on safety, reliability, and comfort, the trains feature intelligent, energy-efficient systems that are expected to operate smoothly throughout their lifespans.
This export contract is not only a breakthrough for Belo Horizonte's transit system but also a promising step in the growing cooperation between China and Brazil.
Chinese manufacturers support modernization of public transport in Belo Horizonte
