An
electric trolleybus (or
trolley bus) is a
bus powered by two overhead electric wires, from which the bus draws
electricity using two trolley poles (one for the return current, which can not pass to the ground as in the case of a
tram). Unlike
light rail, trolleybuses use rubber
tires rather than steel wheels on rail. They are particularly important in hilly cities, as the electric power is more effective than
diesel in climbing steep hills.
While at one time numerous cities operated this mode of transport, it is uncommon today. Cities which still have electric trolleybuses include:
- Quito (called trole, is fairly new)