The correct spelling of the plural form of "trolley bus" is "trolley buses". The word trolley is pronounced as /ˈtrɒli/ and refers to an electric vehicle that is powered by overhead cables. The plural form is formed by adding the letter "s" at the end of the word. The pronunciation of the plural form is /ˈtrɒli ˌbʌsɪz/. Trolley buses are commonly used for public transportation in cities where overhead cables have been set up to provide power to the vehicles.
Trolley buses, sometimes referred to as trolley coaches, are a type of electric public transportation vehicle that runs primarily on roadways, similar to buses. These vehicles are powered by overhead wires, which provide electricity to the bus through a trolley pole or pantograph system. Trolley buses are commonly used in urban areas where a reliable and sustainable mode of transportation is necessary.
The design of a trolley bus is similar to a regular bus, with a long body that can accommodate a large number of passengers. The electric motor that drives the vehicle is powered by the electricity received from the overhead wires, providing a clean and efficient form of transportation. Unlike traditional buses, trolley buses do not require any fuel or emit any exhaust fumes, making them an environmentally-friendly alternative.
Trolley buses usually operate within a specific network of overhead wires, which guides their route. This infrastructure allows the trolley bus to follow designated tracks, ensuring a smooth and controlled journey. Additionally, trolley buses often have a battery or supercapacitor system that allows them to temporarily operate off-wire, providing flexibility in case of diversions or shortages in the power supply.
Trolley buses have been in use since the late 19th century and continue to serve as an integral part of public transportation systems today. They offer a quiet, efficient, and environmentally-friendly mode of transport, making them a preferred choice in many urban areas with a focus on sustainability.
The word "trolley buses" is formed by combining two separate terms: "trolley" and "buses".
1. Trolley: The term "trolley" originated from the late 18th century when it referred to a wheeled cart or carriage. It comes from the concept of a "troller", which was a person or animal that wandered aimlessly. Over time, the word evolved to specifically denote an electric streetcar or tram that runs on tracks, powered by overhead wires. This is the origin of the term "trolley" in the context of transportation systems.
2. Buses: The term "bus" comes from the Latin word "omnibus", meaning "for all". "Omnibus" was used to describe a shared carriage or vehicle available to everyone. The concept of buses gradually evolved, referring to larger vehicles used for public transportation that could carry multiple passengers.