TDI Production Solutions (TDI-PS), a provider of people movers to the transport leisure industry, has provided its latest insights on sustainability and how to decide on the best transport route around attractions.
“While the leisure sector is still in recovery it is a good time to introduce the full range, so the options are to hand when the time is right for you to make that change,” says the firm.
“Your electric vehicles are integral to your guests’ comfort, enjoyment and the smooth running of your attraction. It is vital that you choose a system that meets all of your present and future requirements.”
Efficiency and capacity
TDI Production Solutions (TDI-PS) works with its clients, such as zoos and nature attractions, to create a route plan and flow chart using topography data and details on the arrangement of the main attractions on their property, illustrating the ideal visitor distribution both at the busiest times and throughout the day. The information is used to help determine the necessary width of roads, charging stations, and bridges.
TDI-PS says that working with attractions’ natural landscapes is crucial. For instance, the hills and topography surrounding Mexico’s Guadalajara Zoo deliver a circuit that requires climbs and descents with up to 13% grades.
The most suitable fleet size will strike a compromise between cost and operational effectiveness. It’s essential to analyse the number of visitors after the terrain analysis and route planning are finished to make sure that any proposed transportation system can handle demand during peak hours. TDI-PS regularly assist attractions in finding the ideal transit solution for their capacities, which may fluctuate depending on the time of year and day.
Each tram in the fleet of six carries up to 56 passengers, which was an ideal fit for family venue Northwest Trek, which was looking to move fewer people more frequently. On the other hand, with a fleet of four trams, Toronto Zoo required the creation of a larger carriage to accommodate 28 people in each carriage and 84 passengers overall. Both provide capacity in a way that is appropriate for each operation.
Mapping duty cycles
While switching to an environmentally-friendly transportation method, attractions may at first be concerned about the assumed range and recharge times of electric people movers.
To suit the operating requirements of parks, new fast-charging technology created by TDI-PS’s sister company, Transport Design International, can lengthen hectic daily duty cycles. The firm can also offer recommendations for the best battery types and charger locations that will provide the sturdiness required for busy sites.
As the industry shows encouraging signs of favouring clean and renewable energy sources, attractions can work with suppliers such as TDI-PS to tailor their battery-powered cars and duty cycle mapping to meet company environmental objectives.
Matching the tram operation to the park’s duty cycle was necessary in the case of Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, allowing the park to switch to an electric battery-powered fleet. TDI-PS calculated the miles that might be travelled on an overnight charge using route mapping and capacity analysis, and it became clear that further charging would be necessary throughout the day.
As a result of this investigative work, the park’s system can be operated by charging at terminus stations during its designated 10-minute stops, eradicating inconvenience for both the operator and guests.
Sustainable energy choices
Electric people movers that are carbon neutral represent a significant advance for the entire leisure sector. Fourteen electric people movers from TDI-PS have been provided to attractions in the United States, Canada, and Mexico since late 2019.
Commercial manager Sam Sharp says: “Here at TDI-PS we pride ourselves on first-class service from the initial planning process to delivering and maintaining your vehicle. We support you at every step from design and theming to maintenance.”
More details about transport solutions including contact information can be found on the TDI-PS website. The firm recently shared with blooloop the key transport trends to watch for in 2023, including sustainability, accessibility and cost-effectiveness for operators.
