The Hyperloop concept could be a perfect replacement for a bullet train.
Space X CEO Elon Musk’s HyperLoop One and HyperLoop Transportation Technologies (HTT) have set eyes on the route between Bengaluru and Chennai, which usually takes about 6 to 7 hours by bus or train. This route which takes an hour or so by flight has been chosen by HyperLoop as India’s first high speed connection that will reduce the travel time to 30 minutes.
The Hyperloop concept, which was now made open source by Musk, could be a perfect replacement for a bullet train and the idea is basically constructing massive tube fitted on concrete that run between two cities. Pods carrying people will travel through these pipes at the speed of 1223.1 kmph. Magnetic accelerators will propel the pods forward inside this partial-vacuum tube.
Solar Panels on the top of the tubes and windmills on the pillars to tap energy will further reduce the operational cost. It apparently needs energy only when it begins the journey and can glide for over 200 miles on touching the top speed.
HyperLoop One is also interested in the Indian roots including Chennai-Mumbai, Bengaluru-Thiruvananthapuram, and Mumbai-Delhi. The company has already submitted the Letter of Intent to India’s Union Ministry of Road Transport.
HTT has already inked a deal to build one between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain and expected to make its debut in the next five years.
Hyperloop, on its website, says that it can move people for the price of bus tickets and they are going to charge for the time taken and not the transport.
But, experts say that implementing this project in India is still far from reality because land acquisition and numerous clearances that follow could take time. The decision on cost and fare might also create a roadblock.