San Francisco’s Cable Cars Make Way for Electric Buses

San Francisco’s Iconic Cable Cars Make Way for Electric BusesSan Francisco’s Iconic Cable Cars Make Way for Electric Buses After more than 130 years of service, the beloved cable cars of San Francisco are making way for a new era of transportation: electric buses. The San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) has embarked on a multi-billion dollar effort to modernize its fleet, including replacing the aging cable car system with all-electric vehicles. The decision was made after years of declining ridership and increasing maintenance costs for the cable cars. “Our cable cars are a beloved part of San Francisco’s history, but it’s time for us to move on to a more modern and efficient system,” said SFMTA Director Jeffrey Tumlin. The new electric buses will be equipped with the latest technology, including real-time tracking and passenger information displays. They will also be wheelchair accessible and environmentally friendly, emitting zero emissions. The transition to electric buses is expected to be gradual, with the first buses being deployed on the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines by 2025. The entire cable car system is expected to be replaced by 2034. While some residents have expressed nostalgia for the cable cars, others have welcomed the move to electric buses. “I love the cable cars, but I’m excited about the potential for a more reliable and efficient transportation system,” said Sarah Jones, a San Francisco commuter. The SFMTA is also exploring other ways to preserve the city’s cable car heritage, such as turning one of the cars into a museum exhibit or using them for special events. The modernization of San Francisco’s transportation system is a significant investment in the city’s future. The electric buses are expected to improve mobility, reduce carbon emissions, and create a more sustainable transportation system for generations to come. As the cable cars glide into history, they will forever hold a special place in the hearts of San Franciscans. But the city will embrace the future with open arms, as it prepares for a new era of transportation that will shape its skyline for decades to come.