Could the "New Tech Electric Trolley busses be used in Cleveland again? The Seattle Trolley Bus replacement discussions prompted me to look at the New Trolley busses. They don't have to tied to the overhead wires anymore. They can use batteries. They are supposed to be getting better and stronger. That would let them go off the wire for short distances, like emergencies and detours. Also, a small diesel engine to run the electric motors.(Seattle had Duel-mode ones that were used in the trolley tunnel). China is experimenting with capacitors( I am not sure about that one) that can eliminate some overhead wires.Goggle works to find information and pictures of the new trolley busses. Let us know if you have any thoughts.

I forgot to add that the Trolley busses are supposed to be used as Feeders to the main line Rapids.(Red,Green and Blue lines, and future commuter rail). Heavily used all day with frequent service, but not enough for streetcar or light rail. They can be used on narrow streets.

Dream time. Do a scaled back version, maybe one or two heavy lines using the new tech trolley buses, that feed the Rapid lines, not compete with them. Anyone have any ideas which ones could work?

Batteries, capacitors, and/or hybrid engines seem to be the future.  I've heard discussions of designs that permit the overhead wires to be located at the stations only so that there is some recharging while the trolley (and not just a bus, but rail-based trolleys as well) is at a stop.  This makes building a new line much cheaper and looks better too not having to run overhead power on the entire route.