CarTube

The CarTube is a proposed network of small-bore underground tunnels to transport cars using moving tracks. It was unveiled on on December 2, 2016 at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers by Lars Hesselgren and his research team at London-based architecture practice PLP.

Currently there are few technical issues before this system can be realised: First, it would rely on only electric, internet-enabled vehicles, but fully electric cars only make up a tiny proportion of the cars on the road. Second, building an entire network of new underground tunnels takes time, space and money, although PLP insists the CarTube tunnels are cheap because they are small, don’t require large stations, and have no need for ventilation because there will be no vehicular emissions.

In the London case study, PLP claims travel times on the CarTube would be roughly a quarter of what is achieved on existing roads, and can reduce urban travel time by 75%.

See also

  • Foodtubes
  • Pipeline transport
  • Pneumatic tube
  • Automated vacuum collection
  • Pneumatic refuse conveying system