Paris Launches Eco-Friendly 'Flying Water Taxis'

These futuristic machines, invented by Alain Thébault, use electric propulsion to glide across the water in a spectacularly effortless way. As well as their ultra-modern sleek design, which seems like something straight out of the 23rd century, there’s another reason to get excited about this new mode of intercity transport.

What’s so special about these SeaBubbles is that their transport emits zero noise, zero CO2 emissions and zero disruptive waves. Being powered by a battery system that uses clean energy with an impressively low power consumption, based on the foiler technology from the Hydroptère, they triumph over traditional carbon-fuelled transport means.

The designers want this transport initiative to be totally independent of traditional systems and so, their docks, instead of relying on carbon-based fuel, actually create their energy from nature.

They exploit the power of the water, the sun and the wind to work with nature rather than against it – unlike carbon-fuelled transport whose emissions threaten to destroy our planet.

While the solar tiles are busy capturing solar energy, their underwater generators are catching the endless strength of the water and their wind turbines are catching the energy of the wind.

This energy is fed back into the existing batteries on the docks so they can easily be used to recharge the bubbles when plugged in waiting for passengers, demonstrating a clever multi-tasking way of thinking.

When reaching 12 km/h (7.5 mph), the bubble will start flying above the water like something from a science fiction film. This might sound terrifying, but the carefully calculated speeds prevent any seasickness, sudden movements or waves rolling to offer a surprisingly relaxing journey.

They might look very small, but there are actually five seats, including one for the pilot in the current version, with a fairly spacious interior.

The creator wants them to be as practical and as frequently available as an Uber, while also maintaining a cheap and affordable price that will not exceed €10.

While the plans were announced two years ago, they were suspended because of administrative reasons and so, the locals are feeling very excited to finally welcome this innovative pioneering system.