Hyperloop Travel: From Science Fiction to Reality?

The Hyperloop system, originally proposed by Elon Musk in 2013, is a futuristic mode of transportation that aims to achieve speeds surpassing traditional trains and airplanes.

Imagine a high-speed train that travels through a tube at close to the speed of sound: What sounds like science fiction may soon become reality.

It consists of a system of low-pressure tubes, through which pods travel at high speeds using magnetic levitation and an electric propulsion system. The primary goal of this innovative transport mode is to minimize air resistance and increase efficiency, resulting in faster travel times.

The hyperloop concept has been promoted by Musk and SpaceX, and other companies or organizations have been encouraged to collaborate and develop the technology.

Technical University of Munich Hyperloop (TUM) set the hyperloop speed record of 463 km/h (288 mph) in July 2019 at the pod design competition hosted by SpaceX in Hawthorne, California.

“The Hyperloop vision is becoming reality at the Technical University of Munich,” Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann, President of TUM said.

“We are combining specialized knowledge from various fields such as drive and high-power technologies, lightweight design, traffic route construction and geodetic engineering to develop a functional and safe technology for the super-high-speed train,” he added.

Virgin Hyperloop conducted the first human trial in November 2020 at its test site in Las Vegas, reaching a top speed of 172 km/h (107 mph).

In July 2021, hyperloop startup Swisspod Technologies, in collaboration with École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), unveiled Europe’s first operational hyperloop testing facility.

The potential for the Hyperloop to become a fast mode of travel primarily lies in its utilization of cutting-edge technologies.

Magnetic levitation (maglev) is one such technology that enables the pods to float above the track, eliminating friction and enabling speeds of up to 760 miles per hour (mph).

Additionally, the electric propulsion system, powered by renewable energy sources, offers considerable advantages in terms of both speed and sustainability.

Hyperloop system reduces air resistance

One of the key factors that hinder conventional modes of transportation from attaining high speeds is air resistance.

Unlike conventional trains or planes, the Hyperloop operates in a closed tube, reducing air resistance significantly. This streamlined and low-pressure environment allows the Hyperloop pods to travel unencumbered by traditional constraints, thereby enabling them to reach unprecedented speeds.

The Hyperloop’s potential as a fast mode of transportation extends beyond just reducing travel times. By leveraging its speedy nature, the Hyperloop can enhance accessibility, connectivity, and efficiency across diverse geographical locations.

Shorter travel times open up opportunities for economic growth, tourism, and business development, while efficiently connecting rural and urban areas. Moreover, the Hyperloop’s reliance on renewable energy sources ensures a more sustainable transportation option.

Challenges facing the hyperloop system

In April 2022, Elon Musk tweeted that his Boring Company will build Hyperloop “in coming years.”

In the coming years, Boring Co will attempt to build a working Hyperloop.

From a known physics standpoint, this is the fastest possible way of getting from one city center to another for distances less than ~2000 miles. Starship is faster for longer journeys.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 24, 2022

While the Hyperloop showcases immense potential for revolutionizing transportation, there are several challenges that need to be considered.

Developing a comprehensive and reliable infrastructure, ensuring passenger safety, and resolving technical hurdles pose significant obstacles.

Furthermore, the cost of implementing the Hyperloop on a large scale and obtaining public acceptance remain key concerns that need to be addressed before widespread adoption can occur.