Trolleybus tested on route 80

Route 80 has been one of the success stories of VBZ's bus department. Originally operated with standard sized buses, these were superceded by articulated buses as the Neoplans were delivered. But demand has continued to grow.

The route acts as partial ring, linking significant neighbourhoods such as Oerlikon, Altstetten and Triemli while saving passengers the detour via the city centre. Climbing over several hills, and not devoid of steep, sinuous and challenging sections, trolleybus conversion has been on VBZ's wish list for some time. Sadly, the canton has not shared this enthusiasm and preferred to defer the project to a long-term horizon. VBZ remains deterred however, as shown by recent trials of a double articulated trolleybus (running on battery power and without passengers) to check clearances and determine what, if any, changes will be needed to road layouts. With ridership certain to continue growing as some of the areas served (such as the Hönggerberg university campus) continue to be developed, double-articulated trolleybuses will certainly be the best solution here, and a powerful argument for electrification.

bahnhofplatz.net


this item was added on 22.11.2013 (3780 days ago)
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