immortality bus transhumanist istvan election
The Immortality Bus is described by futurist Zoltan Istvan as a "pro-science symbol of resistance against ageing and death" Zoltan Istvan

In the run up to the 2016 US elections, presidential hopefuls have already logged close to 1,000 days on more than 700 campaign trips in the past six months. No one has yet to do it aboard a 40-foot coffin.

Step up Zoltan Istvan, noted futurist and 2016 presidential candidate for the Transhumanist Party. Istvan is hoping to set out on what he refers to as a "humanitarian mission" on the Immortality Bus - a coffin-shaped vehicle carrying scientists, activists and robots around the US.

"It's an initiative to challenge biological death," Istvan told IBTimes UK. "Along with other scientists and supporters, I'll be driving a 40-foot coffin bus across America trying to spread a culture that looks positively at indefinite human lifespans."

What is transhumanism?

transhumanism istvan immortality bus

Transhumanism is an international movement that aims to use technology to overcome ageing and eventually biological death.

Transhumanists advocate research into technologies that can enhance human intellectual, physical and psychological capabilities, such as brain implants, bionic eyes and exo skeleton body suits.

Istvan claims that the US government does not put enough resources behind research into life extension science that could make people live longer and healthier lives.

Through the Immortality Bus, Istvan is aiming to usher in a civil rights debate over whether science and technology should be used in an attempt to overcome death.

A crowdfunding campaign through Indiegogo has been set up in the hope of raising $25,000 (£16,000) to pay for a four-month tour.

More than $1,500 has already been raised in less than 24 hours but regardless of whether the funding goal is reached, Istvan plans to go ahead with the Immortality Bus campaign.

The bus tour, set to begin later this summer, will pass through various US cities including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Phoenix, Detroit, Chicago, New York and Florida.

"We believe in the 21st Century everybody has a right to a happy and indefinite lifespan, regardless of their heritage, age, and income," Istvan said.

"Our goal is not only to make your life and the lives of your loved ones better, but to do this for all the people on Earth."

More about transhumanism