The word "trolleybus" refers to an electric bus that operates by drawing power from overhead wires through a trolley pole mounted on the roof. The spelling of this word is phonetically represented as /ˈtrɒlɪbʌs/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet. The word is composed of two parts, "trolley," meaning a wheeled vehicle, and "bus," meaning a large motor vehicle used for transportation. The correct spelling of the word is essential for effective communication and understanding of its meaning.
A trolleybus is a type of public transportation vehicle that operates on electric power through overhead wires, often referred to as "trolley poles" or "trolleys." It is categorized as a bus due to its function and design, as it typically resembles a bus in terms of size and capacity. However, unlike traditional buses that rely on internal combustion engines or hybrid technology, a trolleybus is propelled by electric motors.
The primary distinguishing feature of a trolleybus is the overhead wires system that supplies electricity to power the vehicle. This system consists of a network of electrical wires running above the road, and the trolleybus collects power from these wires through the use of two extendable poles mounted on the roof. These poles are connected to a device known as a trolley wheel, which conducts electricity from the wires to the bus's electric motor, enabling it to move forward.
Trolleybuses are highly regarded for their environmental benefits, as they produce zero emissions at the point of use. They contribute to reducing air pollution and noise levels in urban areas, making them an appealing transportation option for cities that prioritize sustainability.
In terms of passenger comfort, trolleybuses usually provide a smoother and quieter ride compared to traditional buses. They are equipped with similar amenities such as seating, standing areas, and doors for passenger entry and exit. Additionally, trolleybuses are commonly fitted with modern features, including air conditioning, accessibility ramps, and on-board information displays for passenger convenience.
Overall, trolleybuses offer an efficient and eco-friendly mode of public transportation, making them an important component of sustainable urban mobility systems.
The word "trolleybus" is derived from the combination of two words: "trolley" and "bus".
The term "trolley" originated from the early 19th century, derived from the word "troller", which referred to a long pole or beam used to move a load in a mine. Over time, "trolley" came to be associated with various forms of overhead wires or cables used for electric power transmission.
The word "bus" is a shortened form of "omnibus", which means "for all" or "for everyone" in Latin. It was initially used to describe horse-drawn vehicles that transported multiple passengers.
The concept of an electric vehicle powered by overhead wires was first developed in the late 19th century. These vehicles were an adaptation of the existing horse-drawn bus, with the horse replaced by an electric motor and batteries.