A 'SELF-POWERED' train is the preferred option for rail bosses looking to replace Island Line's ageing 1930's underground stock, according to a report.
However, they appear to rule out diesel powered trains and would instead look for a battery powered or revolutionary 'flywheel' run locomotives.
The self-powered locomotive could run on the existing infrastructure on the eight-and-a-half mile route, and would also eliminate the need to replace the existing 'third-rail' system which runs the ageing former London Underground trains.
Options to upgrade and safeguard Island Line have been outlined in a report by the South Western Railway which took over running Island Line earlier this year.
The report also calls for a new 25-year lease to allow investment in the route to be spread across a longer period and infrastructure improvements to allow better connections between the route and the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
The report also calls for better marketing of the route.
Campaign group, Keep Island Line in Franchise (KILF) will be hosting a public meeting on the future of the route.
It takes place on Thursday, December 14 at 7pm, at Shanklin Theatre. Doors open at 6.30pm, and the bar will be open.