Trolleybuses continue to operate, but their future as a general transit mode is not particularly bright. They do have a role in special situations, but the global trends are still negative. Nobody likes the overhead wires (except the copper manufacturers), and the problems of urban air quality are being attacked through means other than hoped-for massive switch of motorists to non-polluting transit. If and when hybrid buses reach a competitive stake in the market, which appears to be quite likely in the near future, the trolleybus may reach the status of cable cars – remaining in use in some places with special characteristics, but otherwise just being remembered with affection.

Trolleybuses continue to operate, but their future as a general transit mode is not particularly bright. They do have a role in special situations, but the global trends are still negative. Nobody likes the overhead wires (except the copper manufacturers), and the problems of urban air quality are being attacked through means other than hoped-for massive switch of motorists to non-polluting transit. If and when hybrid buses reach a competitive stake in the market, which appears to be quite likely in the near future, the trolleybus may reach the status of cable cars – remaining in use in some places with special characteristics, but otherwise just being remembered with affection.