Hyperloop The fastest "bullet" train in history breaks a new record
A hyperloop test center in Europe has completed the longest journey ever inside a vacuum capsule, bringing the promising form of high-speed transportation closer to reality. The achievement could reignite interest in hyperloop, a concept that seeks to revolutionize long-distance travel.
As New Atlas reports , the EPFL facility in Switzerland has been testing Hyperloop technology through the LIMITLESS project, allowing a pod to travel 11.8 kilometers in a vacuum. Although on a small scale, this progress demonstrates Hyperloop’s potential for high speeds and long journeys.
The Hyperloop concept, originally proposed by Elon Musk in 2013, proposes train-like vehicles that travel at high speeds through vacuum tubes, levitating using magnetic technology. Without air resistance or outside interference, the pods could reach speeds of up to 1,200 kilometers per hour.
Although the news surrounding hyperloop has been muted in recent years, projects like LIMITLESS are keeping hope alive. In this case, the Swiss project uses a 1:12 scale model, with a tube diameter of 40 cm and a track circumference of 125.6 meters. After 82 tests carried out at a pressure of just 50 millibars, the capsule was able to travel a total distance of 11.8 kilometers, reaching a top speed of 40.7 km/h.
While these numbers are still far from what the original concept promised, they represent significant progress. However, the road has not been easy for Hyperloop. Recently, the company that sought to build Elon Musk’s future transportation was announced to be closing , dealing a major blow to the project.
While these numbers are still far from what the original concept promised, they represent significant progress. However, the road has not been easy for Hyperloop. Recently, the company that sought to build Elon Musk’s future transportation was announced to be closing, dealing a major blow to the project.
Meanwhile, other high-speed transportation technologies continue to advance. For example, China's magnetic levitation train has set a new speed record, reaching 623 kilometers (380 miles).
Despite the challenges, evidence from the LIMITLESS project shows that Hyperloop still has the potential to accelerate long-distance travel. With further research and development, this futuristic vision could become a reality in the coming decades.