So I just noticed this thread, and since I made some drawings a while ago I'll just leave them here. I hope you guys(and girls) like them!

http://orig00.deviantart.net/71b8/f/2015/346/4/a/the_factorio_player__by_djderond-d9jw7kt.png
http://djderond.deviantart.com/art/The-factorio-player-577611101 ...

Hmm... That indeed looks very 'factorio-like'. Not sure if it will work out with factorio though (because of the top down view).
Maybe if the rail would be thinner you could see the cart better from the top.

Anyways, I really like the suspended monorail idea! I think that would work out better, and ...

I made a sketch of a possible factorio monorail. I hope you like it!
If you want to, I can start making a model.

I'm currently working on the Tugboat mod (which is quite similar graphics wise), and I just finished the deep ore drill.
I'm quite busy these days, but I'll try to make a quick sketch ASAP

Here are some examples:
http://i.imgur.com/kb8RC6v.png
http://i.imgur.com/SGNnD1L.png
http://i.imgur.com ...

Yes, I use the code from the pumpjack. I tried removing all of the shift fields, but no luck so far

I have a problem with an animated sprite I'm trying to implement in the game.
The problem is that the sprite is being cut up and it looks weird.
because of this: http://imgur.com/pf2KWOD
This is happening:
http://imgur.com/K27IGWB

Is there a way to turn this off/fix this?

I made a model of the tugboat, it isn't exactly like the sketch, but I think this version looks better:
http://i.imgur.com/SGNnD1L.png

Here it is ingame:
http://i.imgur.com/AcTSqq8.jpg
I still don't really know how implement it fully in the game so I have to look into that.
When I get that done ...

Here is my initial sketch, any thoughts?
(Here is a link to the bigger, HD version: http://i.imgur.com/r5WtG7e.jpg)

I don't really have time to start modelling today, but tomorrow I will give it a try

Really cool idea! Could I try drawing some concepts for your mod?
I am new to making graphics for factorio, but quite skilled with 3d modelling.
I love the idea of making water useful again. Keep up the good work!