streetcar

 

small, self-propelled railroad car, similar to the type used in rapid-transit systems, that operates on tracks running through city streets and is used to carry passengers. Most often cars of this type are powered by electricity supplied through an underground third rail or an overhead wire. A device called a trolley that is connected to the streetcar's electrical system makes rolling or sliding contact with the rail or wire; hence the name trolley car often is applied to such vehicles. Streetcars are sometimes powered by diesel or other internal-combustion engines, generally in suburban or rural areas, where the distances to be covered make the cost of electrification prohibitive. The first streetcars, which were drawn by horses, were introduced in New York City during the 1830s. The first electric streetcar system for urban passenger service in the United States was introduced in Cleveland during the 1880s. The use of streetcars expanded in the United States until World War I. Since then most have been replaced by buses, although many still remain in use, and a new system of streetcars has been built in San Diego.

The term streetcar or street car has several meanings:

Transport

• A streetcar or tram is a vehicle that travels on rails, typically in a street. It can also refer to a light rail vehicle.
• Heritage streetcar lines are contemporary streetcar lines that use old-fashioned streetcars.

Automobile

• Streetcar (carsharing) is the largest carsharing club in the United Kingdom.
• Street car refers to a customized enthusiast’s automobile outfitted to be legal for usage on public streets, as opposed to a race car or other vehicle with modifications that are only legal on a private track.

In music

• "Street Car", a song by Canadian musician Hayden from his 2002 album Skyscraper National Park
• "Streetcar", a song by Funeral for a Friend from their 2005 album Hours.

In theatre

• "Streetcar" is also a reference to the play A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams.

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