Trams and Trolleybuses

Trams have transformed urban transport, making it affordable and accessible for working people. However, they were replaced by motor buses and private cars in the 1950s. Since the 1980s, trams have made a comeback due to their environmental benefits. This book explores the history, rise, fall, and revival of trams in cities.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 64 pages
\n Publication date: 22 February 2018
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
\n

The evolution of public transportation has seen a remarkable transformation over the years, from the horse-drawn trams of the nineteenth century to the larger electric models of the early twentieth century. This reliable form of transportation revolutionized urban travel by making it affordable enough for working people to use. However, the landscape of public transportation changed significantly in the following decades.

The rise of the trolleybus in the 1930s seemed to promise a brighter future for trams, as it ran without expensive tracks and picked up power from overhead cables. However, by the 1950s, both trams and trolleybuses were overshadowed by the dominance of motor buses and private cars. It appeared that the era of the tram had come to an end.

However, since the 1980s, there has been a growing resurgence of trams on our crowded and polluted city streets. This comeback has been driven by the environmental benefits of light rail, which have become increasingly recognized. Trams offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transportation compared to motor buses and private cars, as they produce fewer emissions and reduce traffic congestion.

This captivating book tells the fascinating story of the rise, fall, and revival of this everyday, yet sometimes controversial, mode of urban transport. Using beautiful contemporary photographs, it explores the historical significance of trams and their impact on urban development, culture, and society. From their early days as a mode of transportation for the working class to their role in shaping the urban landscape of cities around the world, trams have played a vital role in shaping the modern world.

Despite their many benefits, trams have not been without their challenges. They have faced opposition from some quarters, who argue that they are outdated and inefficient compared to modern transportation options. However, proponents of trams argue that they offer a unique and authentic experience that cannot be replicated by other modes of transportation. They also point out that trams are more environmentally friendly and can help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in cities.

In conclusion, the evolution of public transportation has been a fascinating journey, with trams playing a significant role in shaping the way we travel in cities. While they faced a decline in popularity in the mid-twentieth century, their environmental benefits have encouraged a growing comeback in recent years. With their unique charm and sustainability, trams are likely to continue to play an important role in our urban transportation systems for many years to come.

\n Weight: 150g\n
Dimension: 150 x 209 x 5 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781784422486\n \n