The Vancouver system is Canadian designed. As it operates on its own guideway, it does not interfere with traffic at level crossings. It is electrically powered, using less energy than a bus or car, and produces no polluting exhaust emissions. Two linear induction motors propel each car. These motors react with a continuous wide steel plate set in the middle of the tracks.
Magnetic force pulls the cars along.
These motors do not use gears or transmissions, and are independent of the wheels and axles. They act as the primary braking system regenerating energy for use by other trains. A unique Canadian developed feature is the steerable axle. This design eliminates flange contact with the rail, improves ride quality, reduces noise and extends rail and wheel life. The system management centre is a single computer which, under the direction of a human operator, carries out supervisory functions such as scheduling, rerouting, system startup and shutdown, and emergency procedures.