Have you ever been stuck in traffic, wishing you had a faster way to get to your destination? Then check this out: The Bubble is a flying water car that can get you out of rush hour and onto a river, sea or lake for your commute. The water taxi, made by French company SeaBubbles, is silent, emits zero emissions and glides through the water without creating waves. The company tested its latest prototype on a lake in Geneva last month and is currently conducting a five-week trial in Paris.
SeaBubbles wants to change transportation by lowering emissions and making trips quicker. According to the company, ditching roads and taking a water route could cut your commute in half in some cities. For instance, the company estimates that going from the Dubai Marina to downtown Dubai would take 43 minutes by car, but just 26 minutes in the Bubble. The company completed testing in Geneva this month, and The Bubble should be ready for pre-orders starting next month. The company hopes to launch in 50 cities within the next five years.
SeaBubbles first made waves last year when they announced plans to hit the water of Paris by mid-2018. Now, the company has revealed details about their new line, which includes a docking system and an app that will show users whether a Bubble taxi would save them time and allow them to order a ride. The dock is designed to further reduce transportation emissions by capturing solar, wind and water energy to charge up Bubbles between rides.
If the thought of riding around on the waves makes you green around the gills, fear not. The vehicle rises out of the water once it reaches 7.5 mph, which eliminates sudden movements and that uncomfortable bobbing feeling that often leads to motion sickness. The Bubble can fit five people including the driver, although it will have autonomous capabilities.
This zero-emissions flying water car lets you ditch traffic and sail to work [Inhabitat]