The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) started testing an advanced explosives detection technology on Thursday as part of a Secure Automobile Inspection Lanes (SAIL) test project.

The program would conduct explosives screening on automobiles boarding the Cape May-Lewes Ferry in Cape May, New Jersey, a TSA statement said.

The 30-day test uses a mobile screening van, fitted with an advanced non-invasive screening technology called Z Backscatter. Passengers will briefly exit their vehicle and then the screening van will slowly drive next to the car or truck and screen for explosives. The entire process takes less than a minute, and travelers will not be delayed or miss their ferry due to the program, according to the statement.

"The SAIL prototype will test technology that can detect the presence of conventional and plastic explosives," said David M. Stone, assistant secretary of homeland security for the Transportation Security Administration.

Z Backscatter is one of a number of technologies the TSA has tested for various modes of transportation in recent months.

In September, the TSA began explosives trace scanning in four airports, by using a new Explosives Trace Detection Document Scanner that can "sniff" passenger documents such as boarding passes and drivers' licenses for traces of explosives.

The TSA has also begun testing explosives detection systems for screening cargo transported by land, rail and air.