Hyperloop flags 'safer' levitation system
- BTN News
- Tuesday, 10 May 2016
In the USA, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies says it will use a 'safer' form of levitation technology that will allow the passenger-carrying pods on its proposed high-speed transit system to lift up and move.
The concept pulls together several proven technologies: Capsules float on a thin cushion of air and draw on magnetic attraction and solar power to power through a nearly airless tube. With little wind resistance, the capsules should reach the speed of sound and a 400-mile ride should take 30 minutes.
The passive magnetic levitation technology was originally developed by Dr Richard Post and his team at Lawrence Livermore National Labs as part of the Inductrack system.
"It's a passive magnetic levitation system that creates levitation through movement, so it's safer, more comfortable and less expensive than existing technology," said Hyperloop Transportation Technologies ceo Dirk Ahlborn.
"We expect to be breaking ground later this year and open to the public by 2019," Ahlborn said.