A programme for individual sustainable mobility

Abstract

We describe a concept for an automated highway system that is based upon narrow, energy-efficient two-passenger tandem vehicles which are capable of travelling at high speed (150 kph) while on dedicated guideways and can function as conventional vehicles on existing roads. The guideways are similarly narrow and lightweight, reducing construction costs and easing their placement in urban environments. In the first phase of operation, vehicles will be powered conventionally, though possibly accelerated to high speed at guideway entrances by linear induction motors. In later phases, they will be able to obtain power while on the guideway through inductive coupling. Under such conditions, energy efficiency while on the guideway is estimated to exceed that of conventional public transportation systems on a passenger-km basis. Reduction of traffic congestion and improved safety are additional benefits.