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In Japan, Buses That Can Also Ride the Rails

The DMV (Dual-Mode Vehicle) is cheaper than running trains

By Rain Noe - May 8

in Mobility | Social Impact

These strange-looking buses operate in rural Shikoku, Japan. They're Toyota buses that have had an unusual proboscis added.

The non-standard snout houses an extra axle fitted with steel wheels. Another of these axles, unseen, is tucked under the rear.

When the roadgoing buses get to the train tracks, the axles with the steel wheels are lowered onto the rails.

The bus can then power itself along the railway tracks.

These DMV (Dual-Mode Vehicle) buses were developed by Japan's Asa Seaside Railway as a cost-effective way to provide public transportation. While the modifications require investment, the buses are significantly cheaper to maintain that trains—and also prevent residents from needing to transfer between travel modes.

Here's a video of the DMVs in operation:

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Roger ak

13 days ago

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Looks like a bus version of a Hi-Rail truck

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Alfonso C. Betancort

14 days ago

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Take off the rails and put a road. These Japanese seem dumb.

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