Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT) has announced the arrival of the first set of tubes designed to move both people and freight to their research and development center in Toulouse, France.
With an interior diameter of 4.0 meters, the system is optimised both for passenger capsules and shipping containers. The first phase includes a closed 320 meter system that will be operational this year. In addition, a second full-scale system of 1 km elevated by pylons at a height of 5.8 meters will be completed in 2019.
Both systems are fully upgradeable and will be utilised by both HyperloopTT and partner companies. The full-scale passenger capsule, currently near completion at Carbures in Spain, is scheduled for delivery to the facility this summer for assembly and integration.
“Five years ago we set out to solve transportation’s most pressing problems; efficiency, comfort and speed. Today we take an important step forward to begin to achieve that goal,” said HyperloopTT CEO Dirk Ahlborn. “Hyperloop is more than just displays of rapid acceleration and more than just breaking speed records. The real opportunity is to create an efficient and safe system with an unparalleled passenger experience.”
“Building in full-scale means we’re committed to innovation in the long-term,” said Bibop Gresta, HyperloopTT Chairman. “We’ve pioneered the technology, proved feasible and insurable by the world’s largest reinsurance company, Munich RE. We have agreements in place in nine countries where we’re working on feasibility and regulations. We have a research center for freight and logistics in Brazil and a facility in Toulouse where we’ll deliver the first full-scale passenger capsule. Hyperloop is no longer a concept, it has become a commercial industry.”
Additional details for a public unveiling of the facility in 2018 and prototype track will be forthcoming.
