Ultra light rail developments

Abstract

Ultra light rail systems are small-scale tramways that utilize energy storage rather than continuous electrification. They have excited considerable interest because potentially they are a very cost-effective way of providing attractive urban public transport.

This paper describes latest technical advances and service experience of the two principal developers. These are the Parry-Clayton range of vehicles, which are concentrating on mechanical and mechanical/hydrostatic transmission systems, and the EROS vehicle, which will have electric transmission. The paper also considers longer-term traction options and developments in related fields that should allow some transfer of technology to accelerate the process of achieving market-ready products.

Keywords

ultra light rail tramway Parry EROS flywheel energy storage

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