Toone’s Tram Journey: An Inside Look
Toone’s Tram Journey offers a unique behind-the-scenes look into tram operation, with an insider’s perspective on what it takes to drive these massive vehicles. A recent experience involved a special run on a closed line, where a select group got to explore the driver’s cab equipped with GoPro cameras.
The Tram Experience
During the journey, one of the participants, Ella, expressed her excitement about the opportunity. “Proper bucket list this!” she exclaimed. Cheryl, the experienced trainer, guided Ella through the basics of operating a 39.7-tonne tram.
Tram Specifications and Speed
Trams like these can achieve speeds of up to 50 miles per hour. However, for safety reasons, the training run was restricted to just 10 percent of this capacity.
- Vehicle Weight: 39.7 tonnes
- Maximum Speed: 50 miles per hour
- Operational Speed During Training: 5 miles per hour
Learning to Drive a Tram
Ella found the process surprisingly straightforward. “There’s actually less to learn than when you start in a car,” she noted. Yet, Cheryl reminded her that professional tram drivers must undergo extensive training. This includes weeks of classroom instruction before they can even operate a tram.
The experience highlights not only the thrill of driving a tram but also the rigorous training required to ensure safe operations. Through Toone’s Tram Journey, participants are given a rare glimpse into the workings of public transport and the skill involved in managing such large vehicles.
