Parisian Floating Water Taxis to Come in 2017

As France’s capital city becomes more congested with traffic, the government is searching for ways to alleviate the busy roads and help make the City of Lights a little more environmentally friendly. One such effort is the invention known as the Sea Bubble, a floating compartment that will (theoretically) transport passengers up and down the Seine River, freeing up the roads and ridding the air of pollution.

The concept of the Sea Bubble was conceived by a French yacht enthusiast who has spend decades at sea and imagined what it would be like if a water vessel could float above water. Its composition of fiberglass and high-density foam will contribute to the bubble’s floating capabilities. This futuristic form of travel does not come cheap, however: Each bubble will cost more than $30,000.

The zero-emission pods will be powered by the sun and each will accommodate five passengers. With a maximum speed of 18.5 mph, passengers can ride in the bubbles for enjoyment while viewing the riverbanks from a unique perspective, or locals can use them to get around the city. Developers also considered joining forces with ride-sharing apps, depending on the success of the testing phase.

With a schedule testing start date of spring 2017, possible implementation of the bubbles could begin late next year.