Russia to Test New 'Smart' Trolleybus in Orenburg

A new domestically built trolleybus packed with autonomous and digital systems will undergo trials in Orenburg, signaling Russia’s push to modernize urban transit with smart, partially self-sufficient vehicles.

The trolleybus, developed by Chelyabinsk-based Sinara Transport Machines, comes equipped with a GLONASS navigation system to help drivers monitor routes. It features adjustable floor levels for easy boarding, comfortable seating, a ramp for passengers with limited mobility, and USB ports for charging phones. The doors are fitted with anti-pinch protection, while onboard sensors can detect smoke and other emergency situations.

The vehicle can carry up to 90 passengers. Its standout feature is a 40-kilometer range without connection to overhead wires, thanks to traction batteries. These charge during regular movement in just 30 to 45 minutes and store energy for use when the grid is down—for example, during repairs or outages.

This technology expands routes into areas without existing trolleybus infrastructure. In Chelyabinsk, for instance, the system improved transport accessibility in remote neighborhoods.

In Orenburg, manufacturer representatives will not only test the new model but also train local drivers on the nuances of operating this next-generation machine.