New hyperloop test center for Guizhou

HYPERLOOP Transportation Technologies said yesterday it will team up with a southwestern Chinese city to build a new 10-kilometer test track for its high speed hyperloop transportation system.

California-based HyperloopTT is one of several ventures to take Elon Musk’s idea for a new type of transport system propelling capsules through vacuum-sealed tunnels and attempt to make it a reality.

It has struck similar agreements with several other countries, with construction of its first capsules — intended to magnetically levitate in low friction tubes — underway in France.

The remote city of Tongren in impoverishedGuizhouProvince will host the latest demonstration project.

“China leads the world in the amount of high-speed rail constructed by far,” HyperloopTT chairman Bibop Gresta said. “And now they are looking for a more efficient high-speed solution in hyperloop.

“We have spent the past few years finding the right partners to work with in China. Now, with a strong base network of relationships in place, we are ready to begin work to create the system.”

HyperloopTT said financing would come from a public-private partnership, with Tongren contributing 50 percent.

“HyperloopTT will be responsible for providing technology, engineering expertise, and essential equipment,” the company said, without providing further details.

Chinese media said Tongren and HyperloopTT would invest in the demonstration track on a one-to-one basis. State-owned China Aerospace Science and Industry last year announced a similar project in the city of Wuhan.