The early cars have a steep 5° windshield, postwar the angle was changed to 23° to help stop interior lighting from reflecting and blocking vision.
By the 1920s streetcar fleets were aging and in 1929 the Presidents Conference Committee was formed by several of the larger streetcar operators to study thoroughly all aspects and requirements for a new streetcar, starting with a clean slate. A million dollars were invested in the project and after 5 years of work the new car was unveiled. It was a success. Advanced motors and motor controls resulted in quiet-running powertrains with fast acceleration and powerful braking, the intent was that these streetcars would keep up with automobile traffic. The body was all metal, lightweight and designed to eliminate noise and vibration, adaptable for different lengths and configurations. Large doors and comfortable seats made them popular with passengers.
PCC cars were built into the fifties and remained in operation in many cities till the mid 90s and later. Toronto operated the largest fleet, 765 cars, the last being retired in 1995. Two remain in the roster, used for excursions and special occasions.
2 comments:
Nostalgic
[Beware: Digression follows.]
For, mm, about 30 years now, a group of benign San Francisco (CA) rich folks have been sponsoring the collection, rehabilitation, and operation of beautiful old streetcars from all over the streetcar-using world. It's a little bit touristy, maybe, but the cars charm the socks right off my ugly feet.
In case the link refuses to appear, you can Google "About Market Street Railway" if you care to.
https://www.streetcar.org/streetcars/
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