Rail Strikes - Effects ?

broadgage

Transport Scholar
Hero Member

Posts: 5416

Re: Rail Strikes - Effects ?

« Reply #15 on: October 05, 2022, 17:12:35 »

I would like to see lightweight, limited speed, electric vehicles encouraged.
Max power-------------6 kw, less might be better.
Max speed,------------28 MPH.

Operable by anyone after an hours instruction, licence needed but granted after a basic driving test, and a theory test on highway code and road safety. NO lower age limit, if you can pass the test, you can drive it.

Such a vehicle should be a lot safer than a moped, and the licensing/testing requirements could therefore be relaxed.

Technical specs.
Maximum speed under power, 28 MPH, brake applied automatically at 32 MPH if running downhill.
Max speed in reverse 4 MPH. Renders serious misjudgment in reversing impossible.
Parking brake applied automatically when key removed. Driver cant forget parking brake.
Lights turn on automatically when dark. Driver cant forget to operate lights.
Road lights turn off automatically when key removed. Cant be forgotten.
Battery charger built in. Double insulated to remove concerns about earthing arrangements. Max mains input 8 amps.

Optional extras.
Heated seats.
Electric preheating from the charging supply.
Built in solar charging.
Parking lights that use only 2 watts, photocell controlled.
USB sockets for charging phones etc.
4 wheel drive, no increase in speed permitted but useful in snow or ice.


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A proper intercity train has a minimum of 8 coaches, gangwayed throughout, with first at one end, and a full sized buffet car between first and standard.
It has space for cycles, surfboards,luggage etc.
A 5 car DMU^▸ is not a proper inter-city train. The 5+5 and 9 car DMUs are almost as bad.

ChrisB

Transport Scholar
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Posts: 12368

Re: Rail Strikes - Effects ?

« Reply #16 on: October 05, 2022, 17:24:19 »

At that top speed, I would insist on insurance being required.


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broadgage

Transport Scholar
Hero Member

Posts: 5416

Re: Rail Strikes - Effects ?

« Reply #17 on: October 06, 2022, 08:23:33 »

Quote from: ChrisB on October 05, 2022, 17:24:19

At that top speed, I would insist on insurance being required.

I agree, but insurance should be affordable even for the young.
A great many accidents are due to excess speed, and a vehicle limited to 28 MPH is therefore much lower risk.

There is a vast difference between a newly qualified driver doing 80 MPH on a motorway, and one limited to 28 MPH and excluded from motorways.

In the event of collision, the damage caused to the other vehicle will be limited by the low speed and limited weight, reducing the cost of insurance claims.


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ChrisB

Transport Scholar
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Posts: 12368

Re: Rail Strikes - Effects ?

« Reply #18 on: October 06, 2022, 11:54:30 »

I actually more concerned about the other person....28mph can cause serious harm & death. Whatever the insurance costs, sorry. Even if it can't be 'affordable'. And required for all ages if that ys what you allow.


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broadgage

Transport Scholar
Hero Member

Posts: 5416

Re: Rail Strikes - Effects ?

« Reply #19 on: October 06, 2022, 20:30:56 »

Quote from: ChrisB on October 06, 2022, 11:54:30

Yes I would require insurance. And a basic practical driving test, and a more detailed theory test as is for a full driving licence. And yes I would allow any age to drive one of these provided that they can pass the test.
A maximum speed of 28 MPH certainly could kill, but is less dangerous than faster speeds. Hence the need for a good knowledge of the highway code.
20 MPH is safer still and should be the new norm in built up areas.

A lightweight and speed limited 4 wheel vehicle is safer than two wheels, and probably safer than riding a horse.


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eightonedee

Transport Scholar
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Posts: 1538

Re: Rail Strikes - Effects ?

« Reply #20 on: October 06, 2022, 23:00:49 »

Quote

A lightweight and speed limited 4 wheel vehicle is safer than two wheels, and probably safer than riding a horse.

Definitely safer than a horse. And they don't bite or kick!


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