First Commercial uST Complex uLight Opens in Aquarelle Ecopark

The first commercial uST complex was opened in Maryina Gorka. The ceremony was attended by the leadership of Unitsky String Technologies Inc., representatives of the Aquarelle Ecopark, government officials, and other state organization representatives. 

From Concept to Reality

uLite is designed to support the tourism services offered by the ecopark. Starting today, it is open for visitors as part of guided tours within the recreational complex. Guests of Aquarelle will undoubtedly appreciate its uniqueness: an unmanned uPod travels above a lake, zoo, and pedestrian zones at a height of 10 meters.

General Designer of UST Inc. Anatoli Unitsky emphasized the significance of opening the first commercial uST complex:

"Today's event can be considered a rehearsal for launching large-scale targeted projects. Soon, we will begin unveiling massive uST Transport & Infrastructure Complexes. This process has started, and it cannot be stopped. uLite holds tremendous importance in proving the viability of string technologies. For the first time, we are putting a string rail complex into operation not for testing or showcasing the technology's benefits, but to solve specific business tasks. By implementing uLite, the engineering company UST Inc. has, for the first time, completed all the stages of a targeted project: design, land allocation, construction, commissioning, compliance with state approvals, expertise, certification, and operation launch.

We have created a groundbreaking industry-forming technology and brought it to life. It was a challenging and lengthy journey—years of effort. We solved engineering tasks some deemed impossible and overcame strong external pressures, skepticism, and the conservatism that all pioneers inevitably face. But every challenge strengthened our resolve and spirit to achieve our goal. They told us it was technically impossible. They tried to convince us we would fail. We even received threats, repeatedly. But we did not stop, we did not give in to fear, and we proved them wrong every time. And we made it—today, uST transport and infrastructure technology has reached commercialization."

General Director of Unitsky String Technologies Inc. Nadezhda Kosareva highlighted during her opening remarks that uLite is the first public-access, elevated string rail uST complex both in Belarus and worldwide:

"uLite will enhance the appeal of Aquarelle Ecopark. I am confident that the string rail complex will make Aquarelle an even more popular destination and attract more visitors. For our country, the launch of uLite marks the implementation of advanced technology. Here, the complex showcases new opportunities for developing the tourism sector. uLite can be used without harming nature in parks and reserves, over rivers and lakes. The track of such a complex can be laid where it was previously considered impossible. On a global scale, today’s event is a step toward the right future—one that is safe, environmentally friendly, and comfortable."

Harmony of Technology and Nature

When constructing the string rail overpass of the complex, work was carried out at a height equivalent to several stories. The method of landless installation with local access from the ground near anchoring structures and supporting towers was used. With a total area of 0.5 hectares for the complex, the supporting structures and stations occupied less than 0.1 hectares. This allowed the string rail overpass to preserve the unique landscape and fertile soil of the ecopark.

The transport infrastructure complex includes two stations, a flexible track structure, four supporting towers (one of which is rotating), an automated control system, and rolling stock – the uLight rail electric vehicle. The track length is 1120 meters, and the distance between spans is 250 meters.

The maximum speed of the uPod is 80 km/h. It is distinguished by low energy consumption – 4.5 kWh/100 km, or 1.1 liters of conventional fuel per 100 km. When no tours are being conducted, the rail electric vehicle remains in standby mode at one of the stations. It moves on demand: to start, the appropriate button must be pressed either at the station or inside the uPod.

Even at the design stage, UST Inc. engineers set the task of creating a multifunctional and cost-effective product. This goal has been achieved. Among previously implemented rail electric vehicles, this is the most economical uPod.

Ecopark Manager Ida Demenskaya explained why uLight is the best solution for the suburban complex area:

"When choosing an excursion system for Aquarelle Ecopark, we primarily focused on eco-friendliness, aiming to preserve the natural landscape and protect the ecosystem. The solution provided by UST Inc. was the only one that fully met our requirements. Without a doubt, the uLight complex has become one of the ecopark's main attractions."