New driverless pods unveiled at Heathrow

Heathrow has launched its Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) pod, the first new example of transit technology in 100 years.

The pods will carry the 500,000 passengers travelling between the Terminal 5 Business Car Park and the main terminal each year. Each temperature-controlled Heathrow pod has been designed for privacy and comfort and allows passengers to select their own direct destination.

There are no timetables as a central computer ensures that pods are distributed at each station according to passenger demand. When waiting for a passenger, the pods recharge themselves at battery points, so are always ready to go.

The Heathrow pods were designed and built in Britain by ULTra PRT.

• Category

  Science & Technology

[trisk77]

Finally, something to look forward to in the world, with regards to transport.

The best line is 'Getting Rid of Buses', I want to hear this more from people in power.

Let's hope that this Functioning System produces some sort of PRT revolution around the world!

[ner25]

But will it blend?

[AMacProOwner]

Off course they can! (if you find a BIG mixer...)

[Matthew Evans]

I really like this idea and I think this really could change public transport. I mean think about it, no waiting time, no stopping at places you don't want to get off, your own personal space. I genuinely believe they could replace London Underground and other metros with things like this.

[iopy321]

well yes I suppose it is. But it's purpose is to transfer passengers from the business car park to the terminal

[funcik1]

Nope...is for everyone , i can use it even if I don't park at business car park

[iopy321]

everyone who uses the business car park.

[funcik1]

Is for everyone

[hello9949]

No it wouldn't. It will just get the people to their destination quicker and It will also look futuristic.

[trisk77]

Why would you want them to go this fast? That would just be a waste of energy.