Light rail

Light rail is a exacting class of railway that includes trolleys and trams as well as modern multi-car trains that operate at street level. In the context of light rail, regular freight, traveler and longer distance railways are called heavy rail (but see also that article for a different usage of that word).

Light-rail systems can handle steeper gradients than grave rail, and curves sharp enough to fit within street intersections. They are classically built in urban areas, providing a frequent service with small, light trains or single cars.