Submission + - A luxurious public transit of the future... (tudelft.nl)
xrooles writes: Scientists at the TU Delft are working on a research programme directed towards the public transport of the future. Researchers are developing a limo-like mass transit option that picks up commuters near their homes, drives at high speeds on a dedicated track, and then slows to normal road speeds when it switches over to city streets.
The creators of the streamlined Superbus say it could not only elevate the status of the bus by promising riders a relaxing, hi-tech, and luxurious environment, but could also get people where they're going in a fast, convenient, and fuel-efficient manner.
Discovery News writes that Rubber tires allow Superbus to drive on conventional roads — thereby offering near-home pickup — and a low-profile, racecar-like design gives it the aerodynamics to achieve speeds of 155 mph on a 10-foot concrete track — thereby offering fast service. While on the dedicated track, the vehicle's frame will zoom along just a few inches above the ground. In the city, the bus will rise up to a foot off the ground.
Discovery News writes that Rubber tires allow Superbus to drive on conventional roads — thereby offering near-home pickup — and a low-profile, racecar-like design gives it the aerodynamics to achieve speeds of 155 mph on a 10-foot concrete track — thereby offering fast service. While on the dedicated track, the vehicle's frame will zoom along just a few inches above the ground. In the city, the bus will rise up to a foot off the ground.