Supraways is an eight-year-old startup based in Lyon, France, that is revolutionizing urban transit with autonomous cars. The company has developed a system of autonomous cars that can carry up to seven passengers and are suspended on beams along highways and airports. This system aims to address the issue of traffic congestion and provide a more efficient and on-demand mode of transportation.

Revolutionizing urban transit with autonomous cars

The autonomous cars developed by Supraways are not only automated but also equipped with embedded electronic and robotic systems. One of their key innovations is an embedded switch system, which allows the cars to move left and right while the beams remain passive. This eliminates the need for maintenance on the beams, making the system more cost-effective and efficient.

Supraways envisions a network of interconnected loops, where all the stations are offline, similar to a highway system. This means that passengers can travel from one point to another without any stops, resulting in faster and more efficient journeys. The system operates 24 hours a day, and passengers can simply use an app to request a ride to their desired destination. The cars communicate with each other, the infrastructure, and the stations, ensuring smooth and coordinated operations.

A flexible choice for cities

One of the key advantages of Supraways’ system is its flexibility. When there are no passengers, the cars can be utilized for freight transportation or other purposes, such as transporting goods or deploying small robots within the city. This flexibility allows for optimal utilization of resources and ensures that the system is not idle during non-peak hours.

The revolutionizing potential of Supraways’ autonomous car system lies in its ability to transform urban transit by providing a more efficient, on-demand, and flexible mode of transportation. By utilizing autonomous cars that can communicate with each other and the infrastructure, the system ensures smooth and coordinated operations. With the ability to transport passengers and goods, the system offers a holistic approach to urban mobility.

Las Vegas is an ideal partner

Las Vegas is seen as an ideal test site for Supraways’ system due to its compact size and high population density. The system’s ability to transport a large number of people quickly and efficiently makes it a perfect fit for cities with a significant number of tourists and residents. By integrating Supraways’ autonomous cars into the existing transportation infrastructure, cities like Las Vegas can enhance their mobility options and alleviate traffic congestion.

Conclusion

While the system is still under development, Supraways is building the first K1 model near Lyon, France. They are also working on a proof of concept inside their factory, where they are developing the communication system and artificial intelligence that will govern the cars’ operations. The company aims to have the system up and running within the next six months and is actively seeking partnerships and collaborations, including with cities like Las Vegas.

In conclusion, Supraways’ autonomous car system has the potential to revolutionize urban transit by addressing the challenges of traffic congestion and providing a more efficient and flexible mode of transportation. With its innovative features and ability to seamlessly integrate into existing infrastructure, the system offers a promising solution for cities seeking to enhance their mobility options. As Supraways continues to develop and expand its system, it will be interesting to see how it transforms urban transportation in the years to come.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

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