UAE unveils prototype of Hyperloop design

Hyperloop One signed an agreement with Dubai in August 2017 to evaluate the building of the world’s first hyperloop


Reuters February 23, 2018
The technology uses an electromagnetic propulsion system to travel. PHOTO: REUTERS

The United Arab Emirates unveiled a prototype of a high-speed hyperloop vehicle in Dubai on Thursday.

Hyperloop One signed an agreement with Dubai in August 2017, to “evaluate” the building of the world’s first near-supersonic hyperloop transport system in the Gulf emirate.

“We are here today to sign a historic agreement with our partners from (the Dubai) Road and Transport Authority… and we begin to evaluate the delivery of the world’s first hyperloop system across the country,” the company’s CEO, Rob Lloyd, said.

Dubai signs deal to evaluate world's first hyperloop

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) along with Virgin Hyperloop One unveiled the prototype of the vehicle that is designed for an electromagnetic propulsion system to accelerate the movement of goods and services through a low-pressure tube.

A hyperloop uses magnets - in an unproven technology - to levitate pods inside an airless tube, creating conditions in which the pods can shuttle people and freight at speeds of up to 750 miles (1,200 kms) per hour.

Hyperloop startup says superfast rail a reality

The chief executive of the rail agency at the RTA, Abdel Mohsen Ibrahim, said that the Hyperloop would make it possible to travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in 12 minutes, but it would be another three to five years before feasibility studies could be completed and the project to become a reality.

Earlier in 2016, Hyperloop One held a first public test in the desert outside Las Vegas, trying out engine components designed to rocket pods through reduced-pressure tubes at speeds of 1,125 kilometers per hour or more.

COMMENTS (1)

Send goods thru it instead of truck, train or by air. | 6 years ago | Reply Send goods thru it instead of truck, train or by air.
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