The latest Trains magazine had an article about "modern streetcars".  These   
   are an improved version of the light rail vehicle (which in turn was an   
   improved version of the classic streetcar).   
      
   It described them as:   
   --very low flow, with most or all seats on the entry level with no steps.   
   --articulated with numerous sections, no couplers.  Articulated sections are   
   added to increase car capacity, not more cars coupled together.   
   --more street operation, very simple stations.   
   --Portland is one example, other cities are planning them.   
   --lithium ion batteries or "super capacitors" to allow limited off wire   
   operation* (it still needs tracks).   
      
      
   *I don't know what a 'super capacitor" is.  Some trackless trolleys have   
   batteries to run off wire for short distances, such as for emergency detours.    
   would anyone know how that feature works in actual practice?   
      
      
   Frankly, I didn't really see any substantive differences between them and   
   traditional light rail.  Light rail systems vary quite a bit depending on   
   location, and in some cases, have the same characteristics as a "modern   
   streetcar".   
      
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