Is Virgin Hyperloop the next big bang in transportation?

Magnetic propulsion system may just be the next big revolution in mobility and promises to be quicker, safer and a cleaner way of getting from one place to another

Acompletely new transportation option is looking at revolutionising the way in which we travel, possibly changing our lifestyles and definitely altering our perception of time. Virgin Hyperloop is closer to reality than you may think.

Imagine hurtling through a sealed tube in pressurised vehicles called pods which make use of contactless levitation and propulsion systems to potentially reach speeds of up to 700 kmph! Scary? Won’t be, says Sara Luchian, director of passenger experience at Virgin Hyperloop. And she should know because she was one of the first passengers ever to be part of hyperloop transportation when it made way through a 500-metre long tube at the company’s test site in Las Vegas. “It was thrilling and an absolute honour,” she says. Luchian reassures that the ultra fast transportation will not be intimidating, but safe. “We’re working on making the pods as welcoming as possible. There is no friction, almost no aerodynamic drag which allows people to go faster. (But) The pods are spacious and there would also be a virtual skyline stimulating natural light and with a journey tracker,” she explains.

IN CURRENT TESTS, SPEEDS OF UP TO 240 MPH (386 KMPH) HAVE BEEN REACHED BUT THE COMPANY CLAIMS THIS CAN BE GREATLY INCREASED WITH MORE DEVELOPMENT.

BLINK AND MISS

The real strength of the hyperloop transportation system is just how fast it can be. It has already undergone several test runs minus passengers. “This transport system can mean commuters can quickly travel to cities from distant places on a regular basis, easing pressure on urban hubs,” points Luchian.

CLEAN AND CONSISTENT The transport system is not at the mercy of fossil fuels and thus, environment-friendly. In fact, the entire system can be powered by sustainable energy, claims Virgin. “Sections of the hyperloop network may even be powered by solar energy at a time in the future,” highlights Luchian.

But would it only be limited for the rich and famous? “We want to take this to masses. Accessibility and affordability are crucial,” she adds.

INDIA IN SIGHT

NITI Aayog has formed a panel to explore the viability of Virgin Hyperloop technology in India. A team has been conducting studies for a few years and the two planned projects are on the MumbaiPune route and possibly between Bengaluru airport and the city. “Hyperloop can do steeper grades, take tighter turns, making it ideal for a transport system between Mumbai and Pune”, says Naushad Oomer, director of operations for India at Virgin Hyperloop.