Urban Cable Car System Proposed to Alleviate Traffic Congestion

A New Zealand-based company, Whoosh, is developing an urban

system aimed at reducing traffic congestion. Unlike traditional cable cars, each cabin in this system is equipped with its own motor and an automatic route-, allowing for independent across a complex network of modules. This design enables cabins to switch between cables freely, offering a flexible and efficient mode of transportation.

The proposed system features small stations that can fit within a standard parking space, complete with

leading up to the cable network approximately 12 meters above ground. Larger stations can be constructed at ground level. Each station operates on a separate loop from the main network, ensuring that stopping cabins do not impede the flow of others.

The cables, spanning 150 to 300 meters, are combined with shorter steel rails to facilitate smooth directional changes. This configuration allows the system to traverse challenging

, such as rivers, bridges, and highways, without significant additional costs. Moreover, the network can be constructed along the rooftops of buildings, minimizing the need for ground space.

Each cabin is designed to travel at an average speed of 40 km/h and is powered by batteries located beneath the floor, supporting amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi. The system is engineered to optimize the routes of all vehicles within the network, with cabins capable of switching tracks at

via small switching wheels.

Whoosh is currently developing full-sized

in preparation for a in Queenstown, New Zealand, with a target launch date in 2026. In addition to passenger transport, the company is considering a similar system for . The cost for the Whoosh cable car system is estimated at approximately $5 million per kilometer, significantly lower than traditional road infrastructure, which can cost between $10 to $20 million per kilometer, and light rail systems, which may require up to $100 million per kilometer.