Trackless trams are a new form of public transport that combines the flexibility of buses with the comfort and capacity of trams.
The new system, which could be operational by 2025 according to initial reporting by The Age, could connect Caulfield station, Chadstone, Monash Clayton, and Rowville under plans from Monash, improving access to jobs and services as well as slashing billions from the cost of a heavy-rail transport link between Caulfield and Rowville.
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What are trackless trams?
Unlike conventional trams, trackless trams operate without the need for physical tracks embedded in the road, offering a cost-effective and adaptable solution for cities seeking efficient public transportation.
One of the primary advantages of trackless trams is their lower infrastructure cost. Without the need for fixed rails, cities can implement this transit system more swiftly and at a fraction of the cost of traditional tram networks. The reduced infrastructure also means minimal disruption to existing roadways during installation and maintenance, addressing a common concern in urban development projects.
Like buses, but cleaner
Furthermore, trackless trams offer the environmental benefits associated with electric public transportation. Many models are electrically powered, emitting lower levels of pollutants compared to traditional diesel buses. This aligns with the global push for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions to combat climate change and improve air quality in urban areas.
As cities worldwide grapple with congestion, pollution, and the need for efficient mass transit, trackless trams emerge as a promising alternative. Their combination of cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and environmental sustainability positions them as a viable solution for urban planners looking to enhance public transportation networks while minimising the impact on existing infrastructure. The ongoing development and deployment of trackless trams underscore a new era in urban mobility, ushering in innovations that prioritize efficiency, affordability, and environmental stewardship.
Another potentially key innovation behind trackless trams lies in the future of Autonomous Rail Rapid Transit – where public transportation has the capacity to follow a virtual track established by a combination of sensors, cameras, and GPS technology. This autonomy allows them to navigate through city streets, follow designated routes, and even change lanes to avoid obstacles. This flexibility is particularly advantageous in rapidly growing urban environments where installing traditional tram tracks might be impractical or prohibitively expensive.
The TRT system is a joint proposal by Monash University and Vicinity Centres. For more information, head here.
