HyperloopTT begins construction of passenger and freight test track
Testing using closed 320m system set to start this year in Toulouse
The first set of tubes optimised to move both people and freight have arrived at Hyperloop Transportation Technologies’ (HyperloopTT) R&D centre in Toulouse, France. The firm notes that the tubes have an interior diameter of 4m and will be able to accommodate passenger capsules and shipping containers.
HyperloopTT notes that the first phase includes a closed 320m system, which will become operational later this year. A second, full-scale system comprising 1km of elevated track will be completed in 2019 according to the firm.
“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. 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,” said HyperloopTT CEO Dirk Ahlborn.
The full-scale passenger capsule is being built in Carbures, Spain and is scheduled for delivery to the R&D facility this summer for assembly and integration.
“Building in full-scale means we’re committed to innovation in the long-term. 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,” said Bibop Gresta, HyperloopTT chairman.
He added, “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.”
