Clean energy: Water-powered taxis next year

Dubai: New Roads and Transport Authority water taxis will be powered by Rolls-Royce waterjets.

The first of 10 catamaran-based vessels, a modern version of the traditional abra water taxi, is scheduled to carry out sea trials in August 2009.

Deliveries are due to be completed by early 2010 and, if the water taxis prove successful, there is significant potential for future orders from the RTA.

Each water taxi is capable of more than 30 knots and will be able to carry 11 passengers. They will work around the Dubai Creek as well as the Dubai coast.