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The Toyota Bus-Train, posted in Inventions, Public Transit, Transportation.


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The Toyota Bus-Train

News » Energy | Biofuels | Environment | Hydrogen | Solar | Transportation | Wind
June 1st, 2008 - View Comments

Bus Train A dual mode road/rail vehicle is being tested in Japan by Toyota and its truck-manufacturing division Hino Motors. The bus bridges the gap between road and rail with 4 rubber tires for road use and 4 steel wheels for riding on rails. It can hold 25 passengers and is based on the Toyota Microbus. The bus has been in service in Japan for the past 18 months, and there are plans to produce a newer version by June of 2008. Hino spokesperson Kenichiro Baba has stated that the bus “is expected to be another step toward more practical use of the dual mode vehicle.” This could be the mass transit vehicle of the future for Japanese commuters.

YouTube: Japanese Dual Mode Vehicle | More Videos

What do you think?

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  • Tim Burstall

    This is a great solution to integrate bus and train and avoid light rails in towns which clash with road traffic. Coupled with internet, one could use such a system almost like a taxi. Also avoids road congestion by going along the railway. Dr Beeching would have changed his mind!

  • styke

    What possible advantage does this have over a regular bus that can’t use rails?
    More costly.
    Heavier.
    Railroads cannot handle much traffic, so this will delay other trains.
    Somewhat reduced fuel consumption in rail mode, but not that big of a change.
    Increased fuel consumption in bus mode.
    Can go where there are no roads, only rails. Of course, few people want to go to such places.

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