Camera operator Holly has equipped the driver’s cab with a couple of GoPros, and that’s our destination. Since this is a closed line, I’m the only passenger while the others squeeze into the tight quarters of the ‘cockpit’.
“This is definitely a bucket list moment!” Ella exclaims as Cheryl provides her with a quick crash course on how to take control of this massive 39.7-ton vehicle. “It feels like I’m back on my driving test!”
According to Cheryl, these trams can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, but even with no other trams in the way, we’re limited to just 10 percent of that speed.
I’m positioned too far back to see the exact process of starting the engine and getting underway, but despite the array of buttons in various colors, our trainee tram driver appears to be a natural.
“Surprisingly, there’s actually less to grasp here than when you first learn to drive a car,” she notes, while Cheryl reminds her that, in reality, actual staff must go through weeks of training in a classroom before they’re even allowed to touch the keys.
