Abstract
This paper describes a study of light rail systems throughout the world to assess their similarities and the potential for standardizing vehicles and infrastructure. Questionnaires were sent to the operators of 790 existing and planned tramways, light rail and mini-metro systems. Information was collected on the following topics: a) information on the system, b) track, overhead wires, track geometry, and platform specifications, c) infrastructure and operations, d) signalling and communications, e) rolling stock, f) staff and accidents, g) operating costs and h) system capacity. Examples are given of some of the recommendations made. Areas in which standardization is considered possible are listed.