So I was checking out a Popular Science magazine a few days ago and I came across an article called "The Green Megacity". One of the things that struck me was the absence of a bicycle in their futuretropolis, I guess they arent technological enough /sarcasm. Something really did catch my eye however, and this was the SkyTran by Unimodal. SkyTran is an awesome concept with one major problem: no working prototype. SkyTran is a PRT or "Personal Rapid Transit". Basically PRT is a low capacity vehicle on elevated guiderails that is computer controlled. I hope within my lifetime I can see PRT systems come into reality. PRT systems are efficient because they are powered by electricity and they save space because they are elevated and do not need parking spaces. It is these advantages which make PRT suitable for dense urban areas. Since tracks are elevated there will be no conflicts with pedestrians and cyclists making cities safer and more welcoming. The full benefit of a PRT system will be realized in a car-free metropolis, freeing up street space for the people and not the vehicle. This is the future I want to see. Skytran isnt the only PRT system, it just looks the coolest. Check out the other ones in the Wikipedia entry!
Here are some links for you to enjoy:
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
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