Hybrid in a different way: ConnX

In recent years, there have been recurring projects in which cable cars are considered to be part of the traffic concept. In Europe, cable cars are almost non-existent in urban environments, while in some regions of Central and South America, they are a common means of transportation.

Floating Above the Traffic Jam

Cable cars are relatively quick to set up and cheaper than, for example, building subways. Their strength lies in overcoming large distances or significant height differences. So far, cable cars in Europe are almost exclusively used in alpine sports areas.

Recently, a feasibility study was commissioned in Munich to explore the potential of a cable car as an additional connection between the north of Munich and a subway station. The study ultimately concluded that the same route could be served more cost-effectively with express buses. However, experts criticized the fact that the cable car would be completely independent of road traffic, making it superior to the express bus that could be caught in a traffic jam.

The Best of Both Worlds?

With the prototype of ConnX, the South Tyrolean manufacturer Leitner is now taking a step further and introducing a unique "hybrid solution." According to the manufacturer, the goal is to achieve "unprecedented flexibility in the further development of public transport."

Until now, cable cars in the mountains could only be reached at the valley station, and primarily by car. To avoid this individual traffic, the South Tyrolean gondola is intended to decouple from the cable and be lowered onto a chassis. This vehicle can then travel autonomously on its own roads at up to 40 km/h to other stops, bringing passengers, for example, directly to their hotel.

"We want to tackle the last mile problem," says company spokesman Maurizio Todesco.

Some Questions Remain Unanswered During Implementation

For now, only the prototype is in use on the company's enclosed production premises in Sterzing. The coupling and decoupling of the cabin must work reliably in all weather conditions. The power supply for the autonomous vehicles has not yet been conclusively determined. Should the vehicle be battery-operated or should it use a conductive rail? The concept also initially envisions dedicated roads for the vehicles, which could present a challenge for some municipalities or cities.