Traditional gondola systems, commonly seen in ski resorts, operate using a fixed-loop mechanism. Cabins are attached to a continuously moving cable, driven by a large bullwheel, functioning similarly to a clothesline. As the cable moves, all cabins travel along the line simultaneously.

This technology has been in use for centuries and, while effective in certain contexts, has operational limitations. For example, even during periods of low demand, all cabins must continue to move, regardless of how many are occupied, leading to inefficiencies in energy use and system capacity.

Additionally, traditional gondolas typically travel in straight lines. While it is possible to link multiple lines, doing so often requires passengers to transfer at intermediate hubs. Some newer systems use turntable platforms to rotate cabins onto a connecting line, but these solutions tend to be slow and energy-intensive.

In response to these limitations, established manufacturers and new start ups are exploring ways to modernize cable-based transport. A key focus is the development of autonomous, on-demand gondola systems capable of navigating a branching network - similar in concept to ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft. These proposed systems would operate largely on elevated cableways above city streets.

What they are trying to do is combine the ride hailing convenience of services like Uber and Lyft with self-driving, autonomous cabins that can move around a branching network of possible destinations. And they are trying to do it largely on a suspended cable network above the streets.

Systems with these characteristics are sometimes referred to as “urban supergondolas” - gondola cabins that can function autonomously and provide individualized, point-to-point service.