What is the difference between an expressway and an elevated road?
2 Answers
The differences between an expressway and an elevated road are as follows: 1. Speed limits vary: Expressways generally have a speed limit of 80, while highways typically have speed limits of 100-120. 2. Toll charges differ: Highways require toll payment for passage, whereas expressways are toll-free. 3. Control measures differ: Expressways should have a central divider between opposing lanes, with full or partial control at entry and exit points. Highways are dedicated roads for high-speed, lane-separated vehicle travel with full access control. 4. Design specifications differ: Highways require smooth alignment, minimal gradient, 4-6 lane widths, central dividers, high-performance asphalt or concrete pavement, and sturdy guardrails where necessary - features not required on expressways. 5. Coverage areas differ: Expressways serve as high-grade roads within cities or between cities and satellite towns with limited coverage. Highways connect cities over larger distances with broader coverage.
I have to study my commuting route every day, as expressways and elevated roads are fundamentally two different design concepts. Expressways are mostly built in suburban or urban fringe areas, like Shanghai's Outer Ring Road or Beijing's Fifth Ring Road, with no traffic lights throughout and connected in all directions via interchanges, specifically designed for fast intercity travel. Elevated roads, on the other hand, are typical urban solutions built directly above existing roads, such as Chengdu's Second Ring Elevated Road, specifically targeting ground-level traffic congestion. The spacing of on- and off-ramps on elevated roads is particularly critical—missing an exit within a kilometer means a long detour. Moreover, during construction, elevated roads have a greater impact on ground traffic, requiring phased enclosures and often involving the demolition of old bridges to build new ones.
