TechnoGadget
Edit
 Runs on Rails or Roads Japanese rail firm JR Hokkaido is on the edge to run its dual-mode bus and rail vehicle. They will begin their testing in April 2007 and according to Giz Magazine, “preliminary trials suggest the vehicle’s fuel cost is about a quarter of a diesel vehicle, and maintenance cost about one-eighth, while offering the flexibility to extend railed systems.” The Autotram concept will measure 36 meters long and can load as many passengers as a streetcar. One of its features is its “flywheel energy storage system that facilitates a regenerative braking system and signficiantly cuts operating costs.” Its concept is to run on train tracks and drive on the road  A dual-mode vehicle, or a type of rail-cum-road car being developed by JR Hokkaido has been drawing intense attention of small rail operators across Japan as a possible solution to lowering the operating cost of local lines.
The vehicle, which is based on a microbus, runs both on roads and railroads by switching between rubber tires and steel wheels.
(smh.au)References: smh.au, gizmag 1 Comment: on Dual Mode AutoTram |
 |
|
 |
Urban Retrospectives
