Railtobus

Railtobus, also known as a road-rail vehicle or dual-mode vehicle, is a type of transportation that can operate on both road and rail infrastructure. These vehicles are designed with features that allow them to transition between the two modes of travel. Typically, a railtobus will have wheels that can engage with a railway track, as well as standard road wheels for use on highways or streets.

The primary advantage of railtobuses is their flexibility. They can provide first-mile and last-mile connectivity by traveling on roads to pick up passengers and then seamlessly transfer to railway lines for longer, faster journeys. This can eliminate the need for separate bus and train services, potentially reducing transfer times and costs for passengers. They can also be used for specialized applications, such as maintenance of railway lines or in areas where dedicated rail infrastructure is limited.

The technology behind railtobuses involves complex mechanisms for lifting or retracting road wheels to allow rail wheels to make contact with the track, and vice versa. Safety systems are crucial to ensure secure transitions between modes and to comply with the regulations of both road and rail environments. While the concept has been explored and implemented in various forms over the years, widespread adoption has faced challenges related to cost, infrastructure compatibility, and regulatory hurdles. Nonetheless, railtobuses represent an innovative approach to integrated transportation.