"The important step now is to have pioneering transit that can be used in everyday life. People need to get over the resistance which makes it difficult to assimilate the idea of podcars," says Kjell Dahlström, investigating the conditions for a pilot system somewhere in the country. The study will be reported to the government at the end of summer.

Kjell Dahlström was among the participants when the podcar network KOMPASS gathered in Uppsala on Tuesday for a review of the rail plan, where small driverless vehicles travel above ground. In Uppsala, discussion has centered on a link between the train station and Boländerna, for commuting and shopping. Other cities have similar ideas:

"Podcars could solve specific problems in public transport. We see a route to a retail district which today is separated by a main road, "says Sven Andersson from Uddevalla municipality.

All 40 participants in the team idemise conference rode the track on Dag Hammarskjölds Road in Uppsala, where in the last two years the company Vectus developed tracks, vehicles and control systems. The small vehicles with seating for four people shuttled representatives of municipalities and transport companies. Managers emphasized that exacting project is only a test, and comfort, appearance and noise level will be improved before regular operation. They were relieved to see today's last passenger, without any sudden stops or mishaps.

UNT took a couple of cortaflex spins, and could see that the trip reminds one of a cross between a cablecar in the Alps and a fairground ride. A little shaky at points, but relatively roomy and with a good view.

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