Watch: World’s first 'smart train' in China runs on virtual tracks

Beijing: Transport sector is one area where China has made giant strides, whether it is launching bullet trains or starting high-speed rail to border areas through mountains.

The country has taken another big leap into the future with the launch of what is being dubbed as world's first 'smart train' that runs on virtual tracks.

Unveiled in June, the futuristic train system began its test run on the busy streets of Zhuzhou in China's Hunan province last week.

A hybrid that "combines the advantages of modern trams and buses", it runs on virtual tracks marked by white dotted lines painted on the city streets, reported Channel News Asia.

The train system is much cheaper to build compared to a full-fledged urban train or tram system which needs tracks, Daily Mail quotes the chief engineer of the train as saying.

The electric train is currently only operating on a small 3.1-kilometre-long stretch with just four stations. The 'smart train' will go into regular service from next year and is expected to be automated.

A video shared by New China TV on YouTube shows the 'smart train' running on virtual tracks on the busy streets of Zhuzhou.

Watch the video here: