Campinas, one of the largest cities in Brazil’s São Paulo state, launched a process to contract companies to carry out studies to build an 18km passenger rail link connecting to the airport. 

"It is the first step of an important project for the metropolitan region of Campinas, which will connect, by rail, the city center to the Campo Belo region and Viracopos international airport," said Campinas mayor Dário Saadi in a release.

The technical studies will indicate whether the most viable model will be a public-private partnership or a concession.

Interested companies and consortiums will have 30 days to register and those who are selected will have 90 days to present the studies. 

The city hall did not reveal the investment involved. 

BYD PROPOSAL

The public call was published after the local government received an expression of interest in the project from Chinese electric vehicle and battery company BYD.

The firm proposed carrying out technical studies to build its SkyShuttle system on the stretch, a 100% electric rubber wheel vehicle running along elevated track with an automated driving system.

The system is also being proposed by BYD for a stretch connecting the cities of Serra and Vitória in Espírito Santo state.

According to the company, SkyShuttle reduces the impact of greenhouse gases and particulate emissions, and the use of fossil fuels.