This is directly from Doppelmayr’s FAQ on the usability of Cable Cars.
Can ropeways still operate in bad weather?
Over several hundred years, ropeway technology has been put to the test in mountainous regions where storms and snow are prevalent, and further developed. Ropeways and Cable Liners can run in snow, ice, thunderstorms and even with wind speeds of 100 km/h!
Can the carriers be cooled or heated?
Yes. Modern carriers are fitted with batteries and solar panels which enable them to be heated or cooled.
Can ropeways have several stations?
Yes. Several stations are no problem and are easily implemented.
Are ropeways easily accessible for passengers?
Yes. All passengers benefit from barrier-free and easy access to the cabins on ropeways and Cable Liners.
Are ropeways sustainable?
Ropeways are electrically operated and the infrastructure has only a very minimal impact on the ecological footprint.
Are ropeways/rope-propelled systems safe means of transport in cities?
Ropeways and Cable Liners are the safest means of transport in existence! The kind of accidents that occur in normal road traffic involving pedestrians, cyclists or collisions cannot happen as ropeways and Cable Liners run on a dedicated route with no influence on the traffic circulating below them.
Aren’t rope-propelled systems much to slow?
In comparison with other means of transport, rope-propelled systems can achieve the same, if not higher average speeds than conventional public transport systems. Ropeways are not held up by road vehicles or traffic lights and can therefore always maintain their speed.
What happens in an emergency situation?
All stations are manned by properly trained personnel. Carriers can be equipped with cameras, two-way communication systems and an emergency call button. Fire extinguishers can also be fitted in the carriers.
How do rope-propelled systems blend in with the urban landscape?
Stations as well as tower structures are very flexible in terms of design and can be adapted to suit local conditions and culture. The stations can also be kept relatively small and simple, integrated into existing buildings or built onto them.
What does one kilometre of ropeway cost?
Generally speaking, rope-propelled systems can be built at roughly 1/3-2/3 of the costs of today’s conventional transport systems.
How are rope-propelled systems operated?
A motor provides the central drive for all carriers. Neither brakes, gear unit nor motors are required in the individual carriers as these are propelled, accelerated and braked exclusively by means of the rope. This technology is therefore very energy-efficient, eco-friendly and cost-effective.