Abstract
LASER, a French acronym for underground regional express automobile link, offers cities rapid access to main economic centers and airports. Without state or local subsidy, LASER will enable a reduction in surface automobile traffic while allowing more capacity for public transportation. This paper presents some innovative aspects of the LASER concept with projected routes that enable LASER to pave the way for private concession of underground expressways for small vehicles. Japanese Ministry of Construction and OECD/Road Transport Research Programme held the seminar on "future road transport systems and infrastructures in urban areas" in Chiba, Japan on 4th - 6th June 1991 sponsored by the Japanese organizing committee.