The arguments of the general public against cable cars are generally the same, and invasion of privacy from passing gondolas seems to be the biggest problem here.

However, the fact is that all the typical problems could actually be resolved through statutory or technical directives. The urban cable car is battling with what is really a very mundane problem: it represents a new system for cities and is therefore initially regarded with scepticism. This means it is essential to provide people with the necessary information at the right time.

An objective opinion can be formed only if people have all the necessary information. However, in the first step, the provision of information is incidental, at least if you look more closely at human nature.

Addressing a new topic requires cognitive work, which people will do only if they are really interested in a topic. This is also precisely where the road begins for the urban cable car: in acceptance of the system itself. In the mountains, the system is not only accepted but indeed desired. The alternative would be a strenuous mountain trek on foot.

In cities, the cable car still needs to prove its value, but it will only achieve this through enthusiasm. As Roman philosopher Augustine of Hippo understood: “What you want to ignite in others must first burn in yourself.”

That is now the key task, in order for the cable car to be successful in urban areas. Advocates are needed, who themselves are fully convinced of this system and who can also pass on this enthusiasm to others.

Sabine Djahnanschaf, Head of Division for Architecture and Construction at the Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt expressed the view that people with a high level of intrinsic motivation are needed here.

“Only around five percent of people enjoy introducing a new innovation. They are neither anxious about the risk nor want to gain advantage for themselves. They are driven and inspired purely by the enjoyment of something new.

These people also have the potential to integrate the cable car into urban areas and to implement a pilot project. Once this hurdle has been cleared, the roughly ten percent of early adopters come into play – those who enjoy product testing before mass suitability. Only then does the break-even point really become a possibility.”