Recent developments in the light rapid transit sector have introduced transit modes that are attempting to imitate the performance of others, e.g. buses with tram-like characteristics. The boundaries between existing definitions of what is a bus, tram or train are becoming blurred. For transport studies and practice this requires a review of how we define modes. This is not just a matter of semantics, but has safety and competition regulation implications for system operators. This paper proposes a structure to produce rail- and bus-based transit mode definitions and typology that are appropriate for modern use. A decision tree is used to classify and define the transit modes as guided-bus, trolley-bus, light rail and tram-train and is provided with example systems. The paper provides a robust definitional framework that allows transit system promoters, operators and other interested parties to have a consistent basis of reference when specifying and comparing rapid transit systems.
Refining light rapid transit typology: a UK perspective
Transportation Planning and Technology ; 33 , 4 ; 367-384
2010-06-01
18 pages
Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
Elsevier | 1984
|Toward a Typology of Transit Corridor Livability
Transportation Research Record | 2016
|Typology of Bikeshare Users Combining Bikeshare and Transit
Transportation Research Record | 2020
|Refining profiles for transit applications
British Library Online Contents | 1997
Refining profiles for transit applications
Online Contents | 1997