Advantages of Trams in Urban Transport Over Trolley Buses and Electric Buses

In the context of urban transport, trams (also known as streetcars or trolley cars) offer several advantages over trolley buses and electric buses. These advantages range from operational efficiency to passenger capacity, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact.

The Case for Trams in European Cities

Trams are particularly popular in European cities, where they play a crucial role in reducing congestion and improving mobility. For instance, in cities like Amsterdam, trams are often used in busy city centers, sometimes incorporating underground sections. This allows for a higher capacity than trolley buses, which are limited to surface routes.

Trams have a higher passenger capacity, with a typical tram capable of carrying up to 300 people, compared to an articulated bus which can seat around 120 people. Trams also have the unique ability to be coupled together, allowing for even greater capacity. Their energy efficiency is another significant advantage, thanks to the reduction in friction due to the steel wheels running on steel rails.

From a lifecycle standpoint, trams last much longer than buses. A typical tram has a lifespan of around 30 years, whereas a bus is usually retired after just 10 years. Although the initial cost of building tram tracks can be high, the extended lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements make trams a more cost-effective solution in the long run. Additionally, tram lines require less right-of-way compared to dedicated bus lanes, making them better suited for urban environments where space is at a premium.

Trams in Toronto: A Case Study

Canada's largest city, Toronto, is a prime example of the ongoing use and development of trams. The city currently operates a network of 10 streetcar routes, with plans to expand this network. These streetcars serve areas that are too narrow or too busy for buses, helping to mitigate traffic congestion and maintain mobility.

Trams in Toronto are part of a strategic solution for medium-capacity transit needs, especially in densely populated areas. Unlike light rail transit (LRT), which operates on separate right-of-way, trams often share the road with other vehicles. However, the implementation of restricted automobile traffic on some sections of King Street has significantly improved average speeds, which have increased by about 25%.

Passenger numbers have also seen a notable increase, climbing from 60,000 to 80,000. This success suggests that trams can play a crucial role in improving public transportation, even in mixed-traffic environments, and may be considered for similar applications on other routes.

Comparisons and Considerations

While trams have their advantages, comparing them to trolley buses and electric buses highlights both strengths and limitations. Streetcars have a higher capacity and better energy efficiency than trolley buses, which are generally smaller and less technologically advanced. Trolley buses, on the other hand, offer greater versatility and more convenient maintenance as they can operate almost anywhere a bus can.

Electric buses, while growing in popularity, have not yet reached the same level of efficiency and environmental benefits as trams. Toronto, in particular, faced challenges with its trolley bus fleet, which were phased out due to obsolescence and the difficulties in ordering custom units. Diesel buses, though versatile, have environmental drawbacks and have not proven as efficient as hybrid buses, which, despite advancements, have not achieved the expected performance.

Electric buses from two suppliers are currently being evaluated, which could shape the future of urban transit in Toronto. The city is exploring various options to enhance its public transportation network, and trams continue to be a preferred choice given their performance and reliability.

In conclusion, trams offer numerous advantages over trolley buses and electric buses, making them a valuable asset in urban transport systems. Their higher capacity, energy efficiency, and extended lifespan are key factors in their continued operation and expansion in cities around the world.