Should the trial prove successful, a fleet of battery-powered trains could be seen across the network, potentially providing a cost-effective and zero emission replacement for the diesel engines that are still commonly used on branch lines.
Three pods will drive themselves on the pavements and pedestrianised areas of the city initially and, if successful, a fleet of 40 vehicles will be rolled out.
At that point – 10.06am on 12 April 2009 – one of the British constabulary's most closely guarded secrets remained intact; Kennedy, perhaps the most successful in a fleet of agents sent to live deep undercover among political activists, had maintained his cover.
If successful, a bigger fleet will be ordered and 100 vehicles could go into public service by 2017.
But, and this is wildly important, if Microsoft is to be successful in IT and fleet laptop installations, it has to offer a product that will take into consideration generational prejudices.
Balchen's fleet was successful in driving off the French, who retired in the face of his superior fleet without firing a shot, and Hardy's convoy was escorted safely to Gibraltar.
The most successful schemes have large fleets of bikes, lots of small docking stations and a few "superdocks" in busy places, such as train stations.
Ultimately the French and Spanish fleets were successful in their aim of uniting at Cadiz, albeit after heavy losses, but they were still under blockade and in no position to realise either the Egyptian or Portuguese plans.
Purchase of the helicopters, for about $35 million, follows a vow by Mr. Pataki, a Republican, to get rid of the state's executive air fleet during his successful 1994 campaign to unseat Gov. Mario M. Cuomo.
