ULR is a
intermediate transport system that uses self-powered or externally powered trams with
or without some form of energy
storage.
It is
a cost effective alternative to Light Rail, Guided Bus and Bus Ways (BRT) for
many routes.
Carry traffic of
350 - 9,000 p/h/d and
have “tramway, LRT, BRT and Guided Bus characteristics” it is able to mingle
with pedestrians, negotiate historic city centres with , narrow streets.
All
this for a cost that is between 75% and 30% less then standard LRT systems.
It
is low cost because:
Vehicles use
automotive and tram type technology/ economy of scale through standardisation.
There maybe no external
electrification, overhead wires, sub-stations, and cables.
It is thus easier to route
and find cheaper more attractive alignments.
It uses a number
of lower cost innovative track technologies .
It can use standard,
off the shelf, not specifically designed components.
Services (gas,
electricity, telephone, water pipes etc.) do not have to be relocated.
It can carry more
people per driver than a bus.
One driver can move
more people in a given time than is possible with a bus on congested roads.
It uses substantially
less energy per passenger than a bus.
Trams last a lot
longer than buses.
Stops are the same as
bus stops.
It only needs a bus
type depot and bus-operating organisation.
It
attracts more income and is effective in achieving modal shift because:
The
public see it as a tram giving a superior quality service.
It is a fixed link system showing
commitment whilst retaining its flexibility.
It also provides:
Significant
environmental benefits.
Stimulus to
development.
Easy level access
to low platforms
High safety
levels.
ULR
is a novel concept but it uses well-established technologies. The principle is
similar to the “streetcar” approach now being adopted in many US city
centres in reaction to the high costs of conventional Light Rail, and may include
the
advantages of energy storage.
It
can be powered by any locally produced sustainable energy such as:-
Biogas
(from
organic waste),
Fuel Cells, Ethanol (from
sugar)
, Green Electricity (Wind,
Wave, Sun, Hydro etc), SUSTRACO works with the local community to identify the
most sustainable long term fuel .
Frequently
Asked Questions regarding ULR can be found here
The
public see it as a tram giving a superior quality service.