General Designer of UST Inc.: “A uLite complex will demonstrate how uST transport works in commercial conditions”

Unitsky String Technologies Inc. has recently announced the launch of uLite transport and infrastructure complex at the Aquarelle ecopark. It should be noted that currently the complex is put into operation as a cargo transport system. Why is this project important from a commercial point of view? The company’s General Designer Anatoli Unitsky shared his opinion in an interview.

Why did uLite become the first commercial project?

It is very important to test your product on yourself. This will first of all allow us to overcome a kind of barrier in the development of string technologies – an industry-forming innovation in the world market of transport services. By our successful example of the first string rail transport complex we show that there are no risks or financial losses for our future customers.

To solve transport and economic problems in the Aquarelle ecopark we have developed a high-quality, environmentally friendly and inexpensive technology – the uLite complex. When choosing a logistic solution, the managers of the Aquarelle ecopark were primarily focused on technical and economic indicators and productivity. And here the uPod called uLite turned out to be a perfect option: it has functional versatility, which allows you to use it for both passenger and cargo transportation.

When developing the transport complex, we also considered the tourist orientation of the facility, so we are sure that our uLite will be among the brightest colors of Aquarelle and will attract even more visitors to one of the best recreation areas in Belarus.

What are the challenges you face in implementation of the complex?

We had some difficulties that were caused by external factors. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the completion date. A number of suppliers in Europe producing components for a string rail track structure and uLite electric vehicle have been forced to suspend their production, and some have gone bankrupt due to the introduction of lockdowns. Of course, it affected logistics, there were supply disruptions, and as a result, it was necessary to adjust the completion dates. Another challenge was the current geopolitical situation and the imposition of sanctions. Initially, we planned to buy a number of elements from European entrepreneurs, but the change in the situation forced us to reconsider the solutions and find counterparts from other manufacturers or to develop and create them ourselves.

There are difficulties today, but they lie in a completely different plane. Our product, the uLite complex, is brand new on the market. Therefore, regulatory documentation has not yet been created for it in the legislative field of Belarus. We are working hard with state regulators to develop and adopt norms that accept uLite not only as a cargo transport system, but also as a system for passenger transportation. 

Why is this project important for the further development of uST technology?

The uLite complex will demonstrate the operation of uST transport in commercial conditions and pass all stages of entry into the transport market, including design, land diversion, construction, start-up, coordination with state authorities, expertise, certification, commissioning. Anyone can get acquainted with string rail transport and see for themselves its efficiency, reliability and environmental friendliness.

Why, in your opinion, is uLite useful for the ecopark territory?

When developing the new transport complex several aspects were taken into account. First, 168 hectares of the ecopark territory is a huge area. Our uLite will perform tasks on transportation of goods and passengers much faster than any other transport, crossing a longer distance in a short time, passing over ponds, zoo and plantations.

Secondly, Aquarelle is a favorite place of rest with many activities for visitors. Our complex will serve as a tour route. The 360-degree view allows passengers to enjoy scenic views from a bird’s perspective. This, in turn, will definitely increase popularity and attractiveness of the ecopark.

Third, our complex perfectly fits into the concept of Aquarelle, where the main focus is on eco-friendliness. uLite consumes a minimum amount of energy and does not pollute nature with exhaust gases. Thanks to its visual lightness and aesthetic design, this string rail transport complements the uniqueness of the Aquarelle complex without disturbing its harmony. Our string rail uPod does not create noise when moving, making the rest of the ecopark guests calmer and more comfortable. That is why the uLite complex is a real find for lovers of nature recreation.