Wellington Cable Car

The Wellington Cable Car is a narrow gauge funicular railway in Wellington, New Zealand's capital. The 628 meter long course with a slope of 20 percent runs between Lambton Quay, the main shopping street of the town, and the suburb of Kelburn. Per year use just under a million passengers, the Wellington Cable Car. The Cable Car is one of the most famous landmarks of the metropolis.

History

The track was built two-pronged 1899-1902 and opened on 22 February 1902. At first the drive was carried out with a steam engine, in 1933, an electric drive has been installed. By 1974, even supporters were carried.

Mid-seventies were to major renovations. But instead of a complete overhaul, it was decided to replace the system, for which the Swiss company Habegger AG was awarded the contract. The last old trains ran on 22 September 1978 on October 6, 1979, the grand re-opening took place. The track is now only one lane and has a passing loop in the middle. On 5 December 2000, a museum was opened in the former machine hall of the upper station.

Rolling stock

The funicular has two cars. A motor 185 kilowatts to the top of the hill, pulling the cable and provides the driving energy. The normal operating speed is 5 m / s ( 18 km / h). A car may be around a maximum of 100 people to record (30 seated, 70 standing). Each car weighs approximately 13,500 kg empty, with passengers about 21,000 kg.

Operator

The Wellington Cable Car is from the Wellington Cable Car Ltd. operated, part of the Wellington City Council. The Wellington Cable Car Ltd. responsible for maintenance of the track and the car, while it committed Australian company Transfield Services employs the driver, sold tickets and the customer service takes over.