gelenkwagen

A gelenkwagen is a type of articulated vehicle, meaning it consists of two or more rigid sections that are connected by a pivoting joint. This design allows the vehicle to bend in the middle, significantly increasing its maneuverability, especially in tight urban environments or on winding roads.

The primary advantage of a gelenkwagen is its ability to achieve a smaller turning radius than a conventional rigid vehicle of comparable length. This is crucial for public transportation systems operating in densely populated areas, where streets may be narrow and require frequent turns. By allowing the rear section to follow a more compact path, gelenkwagen buses and trams can navigate corners and intersections with greater ease, reducing the risk of collisions and improving traffic flow.

Gelenkwagen are commonly used for public transport, particularly as buses and trams. They offer a higher passenger capacity than standard single-unit vehicles without requiring a proportionally larger footprint when turning. This makes them an efficient solution for moving large numbers of people. The articulated joint typically contains a flexible bellows or a rigid coupling system, designed to withstand the stresses of constant movement and provide a safe passage for passengers between the sections. The engineering behind the joint is critical for the vehicle's stability and passenger comfort.