In the Netherlands, the longest tunnel in Europe for testing the Hyperloop super-speed transport system has recently opened. Located near the city of Vendam in the north of the country, this tunnel spans 420 meters and consists of 34 interconnected pipes with a diameter of approximately 2.5 meters. The aim is to transport passengers from Amsterdam to Barcelona in just a few hours, highlighting the potential speed and efficiency of the Hyperloop system.
Inside the tunnel, a near-complete vacuum is maintained by pumping out all the air to reduce resistance, and the vehicle is propelled using magnets. This technology allows the speed of a single capsule inside the tunnel to ultimately reach 1000 kilometers per hour, making it a promising advancement in transportation.
The European Hyperloop Center, the only facility in the world equipped with strip switching technology, enables researchers to test vehicle changes at high speeds. The center’s director, Sasha Lamma, envisions a network of tunnels totaling around 10,000 kilometers by 2050, connecting various parts of Europe. He compares the development of Hyperloop technology to the growth of highways and anticipates exponential spread once the system is ready.
While research and testing are currently underway, the project is far from testing the system with live passengers. Full-fledged passenger operations are expected to become feasible by 2030, potentially on a short route of approximately five kilometers. Hyperloop, first introduced by Elon Musk in 2013 as the Fifth Mode of Transport, has garnered global interest, with countries exploring the possibility of implementing this innovative system in their cities.
Proponents of Hyperloop highlight its environmentally friendly attributes, lack of noise pollution, and seamless integration with urban and rural environments. Critics, however, express concerns about the technology’s feasibility and question the safety and user experience for passengers traveling at near supersonic speeds inside a narrow tunnel.
Despite the challenges, project representatives are committed to ensuring a comfortable travel experience for passengers. Plans include creating capsules with ceilings that mimic a starry sky or a sunny day, enhancing the journey for those on board the Hyperloop system.