What are the most effective sustainable design solutions for hilly public transportation?

2 Electric bikes and scooters

Electric bikes and scooters are personal mobility devices that use batteries and motors to assist riders in pedaling or scooting. They are ideal for hilly areas because they can reduce the physical effort and sweat required to climb hills, and can be easily parked, stored, and shared. Electric bikes and scooters can also reduce traffic congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, and promote health and well-being. Some examples of hilly cities that use electric bikes and scooters are Lisbon, Portugal; San Francisco, USA; and Taipei, Taiwan.

3 Hybrid and electric buses

Hybrid and electric buses are road vehicles that use a combination of fossil fuels and electricity, or only electricity, to power their engines. They are suitable for hilly areas because they can save fuel, reduce emissions, and improve performance on slopes. Hybrid and electric buses can also use regenerative braking, which recovers kinetic energy from braking and converts it into electricity, to extend their battery life and reduce wear and tear. Some examples of hilly cities that use hybrid and electric buses are Seattle, USA; Wellington, New Zealand; and Quito, Ecuador.

4 Trams and light rail

Trams and light rail are rail-based vehicles that run on tracks along the streets or on dedicated lanes. They are powered by electricity, which can be generated from renewable sources, and have low emissions and noise levels. Trams and light rail can also carry more passengers, improve safety, and stimulate urban development. Trams and light rail can adapt to hilly areas by using steeper gradients, tighter curves, and switchbacks. Some examples of hilly cities that use trams and light rail are Zurich, Switzerland; Edinburgh, UK; and Hong Kong, China.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?