Trolleybus Usage by Country 2024

Trolleybuses are a type of electrically-powered bus that receives its energy from cables that run overhead and are supported by spring-loaded poles. While they offer advantages over other forms of mass transit, trolleybuses are largely obsolete in developed countries, where they primarily serve as tourist attractions. However, trolleybuses still provide significant passenger transportation in a few countries.

History

The world's first trolleybus system was built in Germany in 1882, where it quickly became a popular form of transportation. They remained common in many countries during the early 20th century, until private motor vehicles became readily affordable to the general public. Since then, the use of trolleybus systems has been declining, with 276 active systems remaining in the world as of 2021. In total, over 800 trolleybus systems have existed, although not all at the same time.

Advantages

Trolleybuses offer several advantages over other methods of passenger transport. For example, the infrastructure is easier to build and maintain than tram networks. In addition, trolleybuses generally climb hills more efficiently, avoid traffic more easily and are quieter. They're also more environmentally friendly than buses, are easier to maintain and typically last longer.

Disadvantages

Trolleybuses require the driver to exert much more directional control than trams, creating a greater potential for collisions. The need for overhead cables also prevents trolleybuses from deviating from their prescribed routes the way buses can. This limitation is particularly disruptive when a trolleybus encounters a vehicle accident or road construction. For the same reason, trolleybuses can't overtake each other.

In addition, the cables can prevent tall motor vehicles like tractor-trailers and double-decker buses from using the same route as trolleybuses. Furthermore, inhabitants of areas with trolleybuses often consider cables to be unattractive.

Trolleybus Systems by Country

The following list shows the countries with at least 10 trolleybus systems as of 2021:

• Russia 79
• Ukraine 41
• Italy 14
• China 13
• Czech Republic 13
• North Korea 11
• Switzerland 10

Trolleybus systems are highly concentrated in Eastern Europe and Asia. Russia has the most by far at 79, with neighboring Ukraine a distant second at 41. Ukraine also has the world's longest system in terms of route length, which is based in Kyiv. In addition, China and North Korea have a significant network of trolleybus networks. Outside Eastern Europe and Asia, Italy and Switzerland are the only other countries with more than five trolleybus systems.