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Simple Design for Light-Weight System

Concern:  

PRT vehicles would have to be much heavier than the projected 1000 pounds.

Reply:  
A one thousand pound vehicle seems difficult to believe when compared to the typical automobile. But look at what an automobile requires that a PRT vehicle doesn't need:
Further Reading:

Taxi 2000 Vehicle Components Weight Estimates
(Adobe Acrobat .pdf file)

  • Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel - The energy needed is supplied through the electrical system of the guideway as it is needed.
  • Radiator, coolant, water pump, cooling fan. - The linear induction drive motors are air cooled.
  • Oil pump, oil pan, engine oil. - The linear motor has no moving parts to lubricate.
  • Camshaft, flywheel, transmission/transaxle, drive shaft, differential gearbox, drive axles, and associated lubricants. - The linear induction motors act directly on the guideway for 'traction'. No power is supplied to the wheels, which merely hold the vehicle off of the guideway.
  • Exhaust manifold, exaust pipe, catalytic converter, muffler. - The all-electric drive produces no exaust gasses at the vehicle.
  • Alternator/generator, starter motor, storage battery. - The electric drive system needs no secondary starting system.
  • Brake drums, brake lines, brake discs or pads, brake fluid. - Primary braking is provided by the linear motors. Emergency braking is provided by a simple brake arm pressing against a portion of the guideway.
  • Steering arms, steering linkages, power steering pump, and associated fluid. - The PRT vehicle is 'steered' by the passive guideway. There is no need for an active steering system.
  • Shock absorbers, struts, springs. - Ride comfort is assured by adjusting the guideway for smooth riding and providing spring suspension to the passenger seat.
  • Roll bars, side impact shielding. - With the PRT vehicle locked to the guideway it can't roll over. With no cross traffic, a PRT vehicle can't be struck from the side.
  • Steering wheel, gear shift, driver's gauges and mirrors, headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn, etc. - With a fully automated system, there is no need for the driver's controls or visibility.
  • Back seat, trunk, spare tire - Packages will be placed on the seat or in front of the folded up portion of the 60/30 split seat.

PRT Skeptic's Pages

Here we attempt to address issues brought to us by PRT skeptics in a question and answer format. If you have a concern that you think should be addressed, send us an email at Info@ACPRT.org or fill out the Skeptic's Question form and we will do our best to answer it.

Be sure to check back every once in a while as we will be adding items from time to time.

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Austin Citizens for Personal Rapid Transit
P.O. Box 161972, Austin, TX 78716-1972
Questions, Comments, Suggestions? Info@ACPRT.org
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