On Tue, 8 Nov 2005 12:13:52 +0000 (UTC), "Paul Scott"
wrote:


"David Bradley" wrote in message
.. .

I am not suggesting 'more buses' just much superior electrically powered
trolleybuses, to provide a much more attractive environment both for those
inside and outside the vehicles.

When they got rid of trolleybuses in Newcastle during the 60s, one of the
great changes was the improvement to the cityscape caused by the removal of
the mess of overhead wires. At busy junctions the mass of rigging, and the
huge number of supporting poles to cater for the switches and crossings was
very complex and didn't help the environment at all.

Technology has moved on quite a bit from the overhead designs of the 1930's
which can eliminate complex switches and crossings if so desired. But you
know, I much prefer visual enviromental damage to that of unseen dangerous
exhausts from diesel and petrol engines which are responsible for more deaths
than road accidents.

It's a distinct advantage of trolleybuses that they impose
a more disciplined, safe and passenger-friendly driving style than diesel
buses.

It is comparatively difficult for them to overtake one another, and
impossible for them to take a diversionary route in the event of roadworks,
accidents etc.

Again modern trolleybuses have on board auxiliary power supplies that will
enable the vehicle to operate off wire when necessary. In fact in Rome where
a new trolleybus systen has been introduced, part of the route has no overhead
wiring because of a desire to have a clutter free skyline in an area of
particular historical importance. The booms can be disconnected and
reconnected to the wires without the need for the driver [or crew] to leave
the vehicle. Clearly this ability can also be used in the first point that
you made. I don't see too much difficulty in flicking a switch to lower or
raise the booms as required, thus enabling that fabled overtaking of service
vehicles, as if that happens much anyway with the traffic congestion the way
it is.

David Bradley

David Bradley