Abstract: A transportation system for transporting vehicles between destinations, including a self-supporting tunnel connecting automated loading and unloading yards, and a non-wheeled tubular vehicle including a ram drive. The vehicle is provided with anti-friction pads between the vehicle and the tunnel, enabling the vehicle to be pushed with a minimum of friction through the tunnel. The pads include an expansion and contraction mechanism for regulating the position of the pads relative to an inner surface of the tunnel. The system uses a jet-powered drive vehicle controlled by an operator to transport a plurality of vehicles interconnected by a coupling apparatus. The vehicles may transport automobiles or passengers. The automobile transport vehicles include an automatic wheel locking system having front bars and caps, all automatically operated to secure the vehicles in the capsules during transportation thereof.