Creative ways to beat city traffic are always appreciated, and Paris is taking it to the next level with new flying water taxis. SeaBubbles are bubble-shaped, 100 percent electric hydrofoil boats that seemingly glide above water. Although currently only in the testing stage, if successful they may appear as a commercial service in Paris as early as spring 2020.
SeaBubbles would create zero waves, noise, and pollution, the product’s website claims. The goal of such a vehicle would not only help alleviate the traffic in Paris and other cities around the world, but also reduce exhaust emissions.
The boats can travel up to 7.5 miles per hour, fit four passengers at a time, and even be conveniently booked via smartphone app. The hydrofoils also allow the vehicles to hover about 20 inches above the water to prevent sea sickness.
The SeaBubbles could easily recharge their batteries by being plugged into a dock, itself supplied by wind, solar, and hydro energy, while passengers load and unload.
SeaBubbles is still awaiting final approval to obtain an operating license to zoom across the Seine.