The world's first operational dual-mode vehicle capable of running on roads and railway tracks is set to enter service next month in the Shikoku region.

Asa Seaside Railway Corp. in Tokushima Prefecture said it will roll out the DWV vehicles on Dec. 25, having cleared safety checks by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

The vehicles will run on a 50-kilometer course connecting the town of Kaiyo in Tokushima Prefecture and the city of Muroto in Kochi Prefecture, of which 10 km will be on a railway track. Three will be in operation, each with a capacity of 23 passengers and crew.