The First Post has an interesting piece about a proposed “straddling bus” in China that will ride above traffic on stilts and be able to transport 1,000 passengers at a time. An excerpt:

“The bizarre-sounding idea is the brainchild of Shenzhen Huashi Future Parking Equipment company, which has developed a ‘3D Express Coach’ that stands four metres high and resembles a moving bridge.

The bus, which is actually a light-rail train, can travel at speeds of up to 60kmph and will be able to carry more than 1,000 passengers. Not only does it reduce congestion, it also cuts down on pollution as it is powered by electricity and solar energy.

And the idea is not as far fetched as it might appear. Work on special tracks for the buses is expected to begin in the Mentougou district in Beijing later this year. But the buses don’t come cheap, each vehicle will cost $75m.”