China Plans Huge Buses That Can DRIVE OVER Cars

[TheProfessor]

If this works out in China maybe it will work in Jax in place of the BRT?


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/02/3d-express-coach-pictures_n_667452.html#s121536

[brainstormer]

And in related news...this just in.  Following the news regarding Chinese buses that drive over cars, JTA has announced a plan they feel is just as solid and one that will increase ridership.  Instead of buses that drive over cars, Jacksonville will soon see buses that carry cars!  That's right folks, you read it correctly.  JTA realizes they haven't succeeded in prying your sweaty palms from your beloved automobile.  By carrying your car on the bus, JTA gives you the convenience of applying makeup, eating breakfast and talking on your cell phone while in the comfort of your own vehicle.  Your commute may become a tad longer as all buses must stop downtown, however what's a few extra minutes when you can update your facebook status and not worry about crashing!

[CS Foltz]

I hope to heck JTA does not see this post.................those bovines will love it! I can see it now" ride the BRT Car Carrier Express".......Gee, talk about increasing ridership!

[Overstreet]

Busses that drive over cars.................mmmmm.

Standard DOT clearance seems to be 14 feet. A normal buss is about 10feet tall. That 24 ft tall monster isn't going on any standard road. So construction cost is going to be high. I wouldn't hold your breath waiting for this one.

[SightseerLounge]

Busses that can drive over cars. You can't be serious?

[TheProfessor]

While it sounds like a good idea at first, I think its better to try to plan for a city that does not foster car use culture.

[coredumped]

Video:
http://www.youtube.com/v/gOvfnNPtpn4

[stjr]

I didn't think there was a form of transit that could make the Skyway look good by comparison, but this may do the trick.  What a waste.  Just get cars off the road and mandate mass transit.  This is neither nor.  Make a commitment. Wimps!

[Timkin]

Well .. Id hate to see american muscle cars leave the roads ... but this concept is pretty cool. ..kinda scary looking..but cool

[Seraphs]

This is a bit over the top.  It may work on a major interstate or something, but this would be expensive winding through city streets. However, it looks like a cool ride, I'd ride on it.

[Sportmotor]

So its basically a rail car just lower and with tires right?

[Dog Walker]

If you were driving down the street and one of those things came over you at speed it would be necessary to go home to change your underwear and clean the car.

[Seraphs]

If these things stop at traffic lights and intersections, how effective would they be?

[Timkin]

They are pretty cool looking. Look more like a futuristic train or trolley than a bus.. 

I would have to get used to the idea of feeling like I am being run over...

If they have to stop like cars do at intersections, seems like commuting would be the same if not longer.. having to load and unload from this train bus trolley thingy.

[stjr]

I am wondering about the energy efficiency of moving something larger than necessary for its mission.  These things also look like they could be limited in speed, take huge turning radii eating up lots of urban real estate that may not even be available in most locations, and would be an accident waiting to happen when the unaware car driver makes a turn into the undercarriage of the over-the-top bus.  And, God help the pedestrians at crosswalks.