Cable car (railway)

A cable car railway, also known as a funicular, inclined railway, or cliff railway, is a type of cable railway used for steep inclines. It consists of one or two passenger cars (sometimes goods wagons) that are permanently attached to a steel cable. This cable runs over a pulley at the top of the incline and is wound around a drum in a haulage system located either at the top or bottom of the grade.

The cars are counterbalanced; when a two-car system is used, as one car ascends, the other descends simultaneously, reducing the energy required to move the cars. A single-car system usually employs counterweights to achieve a similar effect.

Power is generally supplied by an electric motor that turns the drum. While gravity plays a role, the motor provides the primary force for controlled movement and braking. Safety features typically include emergency brakes on the cars and the haulage system.

Cable car railways are primarily used to transport passengers and sometimes goods up or down steep slopes, offering an alternative to roads or steps. They are commonly found in mountainous areas, urban environments with significant elevation changes, and tourist attractions where accessibility and scenic views are desirable. The design and construction of cable car railways vary depending on the length of the incline, the gradient, and the required capacity.