Spårvägar

Spårvägar, or tramways, are urban rail transport systems that use rail tracks embedded in streets or dedicated alignments to carry passengers. They are typically powered by electricity supplied from overhead lines or, in some modern variants, by on-board energy storage. Trams run at street level, share space with other traffic in many cities, and provide frequent, city-centered service.

Spårvägar originated in the 19th century as horse-drawn vehicles, followed by steam propulsion and, from the 1880s onward, electric traction. They expanded rapidly in many cities during the early 20th century, but many networks declined after World War II as buses and cars became more common. From the late 20th century, several cities rebuilt tram networks or developed modern light rail and tram-train systems to address urban mobility needs.

Infrastructure for spårvägar includes tracks often embedded in roadways with mixed traffic or running on dedicated rights of way. Intersections use signals and priority measures to maintain reliability. Electric power is supplied via overhead lines; modern systems may use pantographs or trolley poles, and some employ on-board energy storage to reduce overhead exposure or enable off-wire running.

Rolling stock for spårvägar ranges from older, heritage vehicles to modern low-floor trams designed for easy accessibility. Trams vary in length and capacity and may feature regenerative braking for energy efficiency. Some networks use tram-trains that operate on conventional rails outside the city, broadening their reach.

Spårvägar play an important role in urban transport worldwide, complementing buses and metro networks by offering frequent, relatively quiet service with strong city-center accessibility. In Sweden, spårvägar are part of several cities’ public transport systems and have seen renewed development in recent decades.