Ashwini Vaishnaw Explains Hyperloop Pod: Vacuum, Magnetic Fields to Enable Superfast Travel

Chennai: Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday inspected and assessed the progress of India's Hyperloop pod development, a futuristic high-speed transportation system. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has successfully developed a prototype Hyperloop pod, leading a significant step toward revolutionizing travel in the country.

While addressing the media, the Union Minister explained the project's functionality while standing in front of the tube, which will serve as the 'track' for the Hyperloop pods.

Speaking about the project, Vaishnaw said, "Hyperloop is a new experiment—in this, a vacuum is created, and we run the pod not on the track but above it by magnetic levitation. It's in the experiment stage as of now, and IIT Madras is supporting us in developing it."

Also Read: PM Modi’s Green Push for EVs: Electric Vehicle Adoption Rockets from 0.01% In 2014 to 7.31% In 2024

What is Hyperloop?

Hyperloop is an ultra-fast transportation system that moves passengers and cargo through a low-pressure tube at speeds exceeding 1,200 kmph. The concept was first proposed by Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk in his 2013 white paper, "Hyperloop Alpha", describing it as the fifth mode of transportation after road, rail, air, and water travel.

A Hyperloop pod is a pressurized vehicle that levitates magnetically, reducing friction and air resistance to enable superfast travel. The system is designed to be completely autonomous, enclosed, and safe, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional transportation modes. It also requires minimal maintenance, making it a cost-effective long-term solution.

India’s Hyperloop Development

India has joined global efforts in developing Hyperloop technology, with IIT Madras leading the research and development. The government has recognized its potential to transform intercity travel by significantly reducing travel time between major cities.

The Hyperloop concept is open-sourced, meaning innovations and improvements from different teams worldwide can help optimize the technology. SpaceX and other global research groups are continuously working to enhance Hyperloop efficiency, safety, and feasibility.

With IIT Madras making breakthroughs in Hyperloop research, India could soon witness a new era of ultra-fast, eco-friendly transportation. The success of this project could revolutionize travel and logistics, bringing a futuristic mode of transport closer to reality.