The hyperloop is a mode of transport utilising low air pressure in a sealed tube to propel a pod free of air resistance or friction. The hyperloop could potentially convey people or objects at hypersonic speeds while being energy efficient and environmentally friendly compared to other modes of transport.
Testing is at an advanced stage with the front runners being Space X and Virgin. The hyperloop concept has been open sourced by Space X with a number of student led teams working to advance the technology. One of the biggest challenges will be to implement the technology in a cost effective and competitive manner.
On 8 November 2020 Virgin Hyperloop shared that it had conducted the first ever test of its transportation system with human passengers. The test took place at the Company’s DevLoop test track in the desert outside Las Vegas, Nevada. It reached a speed of 100 miles per hour during the test. Over 400 tests have been conducted on the transport system by Virgin Hyperloop.