China has come up with an innovative way to reduce carbon emissions and relieve congested metropolitan areas. They have developed what is being called a “straddling bus” that allows vehicles less than 2 meters tall to pass under the busses. This was first exhibited at the 13^th Beijing International High-Tech Expo in May of this year, with hopes of putting a model into pilot use in Beijing’s Mentougou district in the near future.

These large sized busses have a ground clearance of 4 to 4.5 meters and 6 meters wide, and are comprised of two levels- the upper levels will be designated as passenger space, and the lower level will be for the passage of normal sized vehicles.

The “straddling Bus” will be powered by solar energy and electricity with a top speed of 60 km/h (37 mph) carrying a maximum passenger load of 1200 to 1400 in one trip (about 300 per cart). It also has an emergency exit ladder built in, in case evacuation is necessary. It is also estimated that this bus will save approximately 860 tons of fuel each year.

Bourne Energy has come up with a portable hydro electric energy source.

Packed up, it measures 3’ in length, and weighs less than 25 lbs (Type 2, BPP-2, military version). A self contained system, it has its own integrated power, control, cooling and sensor systems. It collapses into 3 major parts which fit into a round backpack. This unit produces up to 600w (depending on river current), it operates silently with no heat or exhaust emissions. These can be set up singularly or in arrays of over 20kw.

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Of the new electric cars that are making headlines, this car looks very exciting. Think City Electric Car has come up with a design that can travel up to 100 miles on a single charge, and can be charged using an onboard AC charger. It will do an 80% charge in just 15 minutes! It has room for four with optional back seats. It also has electric windows and mirrors, central locking, 2 front airbags, ABS brakes and regenerative braking!

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