With the ConnX prototype, LEITNER, the manufacturer based in South Tyrol, is now taking a significant step forward and creating unprecedented flexibility in the further development of public transport with a unique “hybrid solution”.
Ropeway meets autonomous vehicle
The new ConnX system developed by LEITNER is based on a ropeway, in which the cabin is transfered to an autonomous vehicle in the station, which then continues traveling on its own route.
On the one hand, possible topographical or structural obstacles can be overcome more easily with a ropeway, while on the other hand, the “double solution” is also attractive for those urban areas in which a continuous ropeway version is cannot be realized due to various reasons.
The name “ConnX” – based on the word “connect” – has high recognition value due to its brevity and expresses the greatest benefit of the system, the ideal connection between a ropeway-guided and terrestrial system
Countless advantages for the passenger
The combination of a ropeway and self-driving vehicles allow convenient transport without needing to change, in spite of different forms of transport. Furthermore, the flowing, engaging interaction between suspended stages in the ropeway and ground-level sections provides perfect adaptability to diverse urban planning requirements.
In this way, even existing infrastructural barriers – such as buildings or monuments – can be bypassed. Changing between different means of transport and the resulting intermodality can also be optimized considerably by the additional effect of the dual solution. ConnX not only lends itself as a “missing link” between different transport systems or between two ropeways, but also as a “last mile connection” for people and goods.
- No need to change vehicles
- “Missing Link" between different transport systems or between two ropeways
- “Last Mile Connection" for passengers and goods
- Continuous transport - no waiting times
- Flexible planning of stops
- Adaptation to different urban planning needs
- Bypassing of buildings and monuments is possible
- Dedicated lane - therefore no waiting times
- Speed of 10 m/s on the ground
“The concept of intermodal, sustainable passenger transport is behind the idea. The passengers should be able to reach their desired destination without changing from one means of transport to another. Areas that are inaccessible to ropeways in an urban context are reached by self-driving modules, such as railway stations or subway stations.”
- Klaus Erharter, Technical Director of LEITNER
Cheap to build, reliable and sustainable, thanks to electric mobility
ConnX therefore strengthens the main advantages of ropeways and creates added value from an ecological, structural and financial perspective, in comparison to existing means of road and rail transport.
- Short construction time and low investment and operating costs in comparison
- Significant reduction of noise emissions and efficient use of e-mobility in public transport
- Movement on own lane without disturbance and delay
- System mix that brings out the appropriate strengths depending on needs and requirements
- Attractiveness of the ropeway as a trendy means of local transport in urban areas
