France has around 5,700 kilometres of small railway lines that are currently not in use. The vehicles, called “Ferromobiles,” are based on a Peugeot e-Traveller and can switch from road to rail. The vans can carry up to eight passengers and operate both on a schedule and on demand.

Credits: Unsplash; Author: Alex Heuvink;

The vehicles run automatically on rails and are driven manually on roads, and passengers will board at designated hubs along railway tracks. The project is part of efforts to improve transport links in rural areas, and the system can be booked via phone, similar to ride-hailing services.