There are two major sub-groups of Cable-Propelled Transit (CPT) technology: Gondolas and Cable Cars.
Gondolas are supported and propelled from above by cables. Most people are familiar with this technology as used in alpine ski-resorts, however it is finding increased usage in non-alpine urban regions.
Cable Cars on the other hand, are supported and propelled from below. Propulsion is provided by a cable whereas support is provided by rails of varying configurations.
It’s important to understand that since there has never existed an exact typology for Cable-Propelled Transit, people tend to use the terms Gondola and Cable Car interchangeably. Hopefully, The Gondola Project can help solve that problem.
Remember: Gondolas are from above and Cable Cars are from below. That’s all you need to know.
Proceed to Basic Lesson 3 to learn about Aerial Trams & Funiculars
Return to Basic Lesson 1 to learn the definition of Cable Propelled Transit
Creative Commons images by borkur.net, Dede90 and Matthew Black
4 Comments
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Herm
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Thanks for the information. Am trying to find a realistic fossil fuel free solution for a city of 1 million in the semi-tropics!