HyperloopTT sees the arrival of its first full scale passenger & freight tubes in Toulouse

April 13, 2018: With the arrival of first set of tubes designed to move both people and freight in Toulouse, France, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT) gets close to its aim of mitigating transportation industry’s concerns.

The introduction of these tubes will address the major needs of supply chain namely speed and efficiency.

The first phase includes a closed 320-metre 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.

Since the tubes have an interior diameter of 4.0 metres, the system is optimised both for passenger as well as freight. 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.

“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,” Dirk Ahlborn, HyperloopTT’s CEO.

“Building in full-scale means we’re committed to innovation in the long-term,” said Bibop Gresta, chairman, HyperloopTT. “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 centre 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.