Maritime startup Seabubbles pledges to bring “flying water taxis” to the waterways of Paris by 2017.
Seabubbles is a green, maritime transportation system inspired by the hybrid/electric car movement. Their eco-friendly, solar-powered shuttles will operate like taxi cabs, taking advantage of most cities’ open waterways to reduce road and highway traffic.
Each shuttle is made from a biodegradable mix of fiberglass and high-density foam, and seats up to five people. They’re also whisper-quiet, and don’t kick up any wakes that would damage river or sea walls. Best of all, their battery-driven propulsion systems are totally emissions-free.
As to why they chose Paris, Seabubbles co-founder Alain Thébault told the Telegraph that the city’s mayor, Anne Hidalgo, was instrumental in getting their idea off the ground, so they’re testing the shuttle system on the Seine as a sign of gratitude. The company plans to expand to other European cities, and it’s already met with officials in both New York City and Florida about possibly expanding to the U.S. in years to come.
Of course, the company still has to get through its prototype and testing phases, but Seabubbles’ plan is worth considering in the face of both worldwide urbanization and climate change. Visit their website to learn more about them, and scroll down for a short video from Vocativ.
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