RoadRUNNER

The RoadRUNNER public service vehicle concept is the result of an Anglo-American collaboration between HILTech Developments and Model Fiberglass company (MFG) and Intermountain Design Inc (IDI)

RoadRUNNER comprises:

• a tractor unit and
• attached but separate carriages

not unlike the concept of a train except that it is designed for road operational use. However, a dual mode road and rail version will be offered later.

The number and type of carriages determine the passenger capacity. There are many unique features of RoadRUNNER but three of the most important are that

(a) it uses less energy and causes less pollution than its conventional diesel powered bus counterpart, and

(b) it incorporates state-of-the-art information technology and has an out-of-use maintenance down time of less thirty minutes, and

(c) it is a technically and commercially viable ultra-low emission road vehicle.

RoadRUNNER also benefits from low operating cost which is a fraction of its diesel counterpart and capital costs which are close to those of a conventional diesel bus. It is also economical to provide trailers configured to various loading requirements i.e. airport, ski, Olympic, university, handicap, loading bikes, commuters, shoppers, etc.

The RoadRUNNER programme provides exceptional passenger comfort, convenience and safety. Real-time information availability provides a cornerstone of a ultra-modern twenty-first century public service transport road programme. The styling, engineering and build quality will match and aim to exceed the highest international standards and the vehicle design incorporates state-of-the-art seating, suspension and safety features.

The ultra-low floor will extend throughout the whole of the passenger carriage. The full kneel floor height of 260 mm will allow wheelchair access and two wheel chair positions (with tilt seats) with seatbelts shall be available on all models.

The windscreen shall be of tinted laminated glass. Side double glazing shall be tinted laminated glass to reduce solar gain and shall be bonded into main body having a continuous surface improving the Cd.

Given its high passenger volume of up to 350 persons, reduced operational costs, passenger convenience and operational flexibility RoadRUNNER promises an viable alternative to conventional buses and also light rail systems particularly where overhead utility supply is available and high speed guided buses are an option.