Tunnel bus

[Mark]

Incredible bus is also a tunnel:
http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/04082010/36/in ... nel-0.html

Chinese designers have come up with an innovative cost-effective public transport system: the tunnel bus. The remarkable bus straddles two lanes of traffic, allowing cars to drive underneath while it carries up to 1,200 passengers.

It's environmentally sound too because it runs on electricity, using a state-of-the-art charging system. Called relay charging, the roof of the bus conducts electricity and contacts special charging posts as it moves along.

Continues.....

[JohnB]

It must be really weird, or probably pretty scary, driving under it when it's moving. British roads tend to be a bit windy, and change width rather a lot, so it could be interesting trying it here!

[Mark]

Unfortunately for me, the term 'tunnel bus' envokes memories of getting the last bus from Liverpool going under the Mersey at some ungodly hour in the morning.

Very messy indeed......

[madibe]

and... you certainly have to make sure your not in the tunnel or that the tunnel is not approaching when you want to turn left or right....

In fact, seeing the left and right junctions could be a problem?

Let's face it, it is odd.

ALSO!

The trials will focus on traffic management and safety. Managing traffic flow is an issue: how, for example, to guarantee a bus can turn off a road safely while there is no traffic underneath.

I'd love to know how this works? I mean...perhaps cars have to just try and turn with the tunnel???? WTF! Or a traffic light system on the tunnel tells you when it is safe to drive into it??? Grief. Just automate the whole lot...cars and all....and call it a train.

[adam2]

Daft idea, too expensive, too complicated, too much to go wrong.

Much easier to build a railway or tramway next to the road, or if space is realy tight, an elevated railway or tramway over the road.