 The minitram is an electronically guided form of ultra-light rail |
A battery powered minitram is to be trialled in Bradford in a bid to improve the city's transport system. The bus-like vehicle runs on rubber tyres instead of tracks and is guided through the streets electronically.
The eight-week trial will start next month and offer free transport around the city centre for up to five hours a day, six days a week.
It is being funded by Bradford Council and Metro and, if successful, will be introduced permanently in 2008.
Improving access
The minitram being used for the trial can accommodate up to 30 people and one wheelchair user.
Bradford Council said the low-emissions vehicle is narrow enough to travel on historic roads that conventional buses can not use and could even share wide cycle lanes.
Anne Hawkesworth from the council said it was a very exciting project.
"Improving access and helping people get around the city will benefit shoppers and shop keepers alike," she said.
"The other great thing about the minitram is that it's so environmentally friendly."
Minitrams have previously been trialled in Stratford-on-Avon, where the local council is said to be pursuing funding to introduce a permanent service.
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