Trams offer several distinct advantages, particularly in urban environments, including faster travel times compared to traffic due to traffic light priority and high service frequency.
Key Advantages of Trams
Based on information from the provided references and general understanding, trams present compelling benefits for urban transportation:
- Traffic Priority and Speed: A significant advantage is their ability to be faster than traffic. This is achieved through green wave traffic light pre-emption. This system allows trams to proceed through intersections without being delayed by traffic lights, even when sharing the same road space without physical segregation. This 'green wave' capability is a key differentiator mentioned in the reference, noting it cannot be applied to buses. This gives trams a reliable speed advantage over standard road traffic.
- High Frequency: Trams can operate with high frequency. As stated in the reference, they can run every 6 minutes. This consistent and frequent service means passengers don't have long waits, making them a convenient and attractive travel option for daily commutes.
- Environmental Benefits: Generally, trams are electric, meaning they produce zero tailpipe emissions in the area they operate. This contributes to cleaner air in cities compared to diesel buses or cars.
- Capacity: Trams typically have a higher passenger capacity than buses, making them more efficient for moving large numbers of people along busy corridors.
- Smooth Ride: Running on fixed rails provides a smoother and more comfortable ride for passengers compared to road vehicles.
- Predictability and Reliability: Their fixed routes and priority at intersections contribute to high predictability and reliability in scheduling. Passengers can rely on trams arriving and departing on time.
How Green Wave Pre-emption Works
Green wave traffic light pre-emption is a system where a tram approaching an intersection can signal ahead to the traffic lights. The system then adjusts the light sequence to give the tram a green signal, minimising or eliminating stops. This is a crucial factor enabling trams to maintain speed and schedule integrity, bypassing typical traffic delays.
These advantages highlight why trams are considered an effective mode of public transport, offering speed, frequency, environmental benefits, and reliability, particularly in congested urban settings.
