Frequently Asked Questions

How does a trolley differ from a tram?

Answer: Trolleys come in various sizes and are able to accommodate up to 40 passengers. They are termed "street legal" and basically transport commuters just like a bus. You will find that some models are totally open or semi-open while others are completely enclosed. Trolleys can operate on roads and freeways, just like cars or buses. Trams, on the other hand, are most often used for transporting passengers within a designated area such as a theme park or parking lot. They are not licensed to operate alongside public traffic. Trams are slow moving and come in multiple car configurations that track behind each other. The most common tram design is "open air" and lends itself well to the amusement industry and to guided tours for quick loading and unloading.

How does the trolley sold by Specialty Vehicles differ from the famous San Francisco cable car?

Answer: San Francisco's cable cars are unique in that they do not operate under their own power. Instead, they are propelled mechanically under the supervision of a "grip man" who applies a systematic "grip" and "release" motion to a continuous loop of moving steel cable that runs in a conduit under the street. In comparison, the trolleys sold by SVI are a "body on chassis design" and operate on six rubber tires. They are powered by regular gasoline/diesel engines and operated by a driver.

Is the driver of a SVI trolley required to have any special certification?

Answer: Since the trolley driver is transporting passengers commercially, a commercial license is mandatory. For those trolleys equipped with airbrakes, an airbrake endorsement is also required by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

What are the applications of the Mini Tram and Utility Truck?

Answer: Mini Trams are great for shuttling guests within a resort while the versatility of the Utility Truck offers numerous possibilities including grounds keeping, maintenance and security functions. The SVI Utility Truck can also be used as baggage or beverage carts - they are certainly, without a doubt, multi-purpose vehicles.

Can SVI build a totally customized trolley or tram to meet my specific needs?

Answer: Most definitely. In fact, most of the vehicles at SVI are built to each customer's exact specifications.

How much lead time is required from the day my order is placed to final delivery of a vehicle?

Answer: Many variables are involved in production scheduling, but in general, a customer can anticipate four to five months to complete a tram order and sixty to ninety days to fill a Mini Tram and Utility Truck order. With trolley purchases, SVI has demos and used trolleys available immediately, but a new, customized trolley would typically take approximately four to six months to be delivered.

Where can I buy parts for my trolley or tram?

Answer: Brian Kolb, SVI's Parts & Warranty Administrator, would be happy to help you with any and all of your parts needs. For the most commonly requested items, Brian keeps a healthy inventory on hand so that he can ship orders overnight. He can be reached at 1-800-SVI-TRAM.

Where do I go for required maintenance or repair work on my SVI vehicle?

Answer: If your vehicle is local to Southern Nevada and is having problems in transit or on-site, please call the SVI office for assistance (1-800-SVI-TRAM). SVI is committed to getting the vehicle back in operation as quickly as possible. For those outside of the Henderson/Las Vegas area, go to your local Freightliner or Ford dealership, depending on the make of the chassis. RV repair facilities or dealerships who handle Freightliner or Ford chassis are yet another resource to call upon.

Can you offer any assistance to our Maintenance Department in their efforts to keep the trolleys in good working condition?

Answer: SVI can supply maintenance, parts and technical support manuals for the engine, transmission, chassis and body of your vehicle, including everything from hydraulic steering and brake drawings to detailed electrical engine schematics specific to your model. These publications can be ordered through Brian Kolb, SVI's Parts & Warranty Administrator. Please have your VIN (vehicle identification number) available with you when you call. SVI also provides troubleshooting assistance for technical inquiries. Brian can be reached at 702-567-5256 or 1-800-SVI-TRAM.

Does SVI sell worldwide?

Answer: Yes. SVI has sold trolleys in South America and trams in Asia.

Do I have the ability to "trade in" or "sell back" a vehicle previously purchased from SVI or one of your competitors?

Answer: Absolutely. Whether you're looking to sell your trolley or tram for cash or trade it in for a new or different model, SVI is willing to work with you regardless of where or when the vehicle was initially purchased.

How can I make sure I will receive updated information from SVI?

Answer: SVI works hard to keep in touch with its customers. We like to keep our customers informed with Special Deal Notifications, Postcards for New Vehicle Introductions and Updated Parts Lists. To make sure your name is included on our mailing list, please call Angie Kolb at 1-800-SVI-TRAM.

Why do people seem to be fascinated with trolleys?

Answer: Trolleys are reminiscent of a simpler and easier way of life - the good ol' days. They are a nostalgic presence in our modern, hectic world that breathe life into wonderful old memories - like Judy Garland singing, "Clang, clang, clang went the trolley" in the 1944 classic Meet Me In St. Louis. Trolleys are eye-catching, fun to ride for both young and old alike and are a whimsical alternative to the people moving industry. For these reasons, it is not surprising that statistics support the fact that ridership increases significantly with a trolley compared to more conventional modes of public transportation.

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