There is renewed interest in hyperloop technology, which aims to make land travel as fast as air travel. The idea of traveling from London to Paris in under 30 minutes has attracted attention, especially since Elon Musk published a white paper on the subject in 2013. Supporters of hyperloop believe that this technology could change how people think about distance and affect decisions such as where to live or travel.
However, the future of hyperloop remains uncertain due to questions about cost and capacity. Some experts argue that while building the infrastructure would be similar in expense to high-speed rail, operational costs could be lower because the system would use less energy. “The infrastructure is comparable to high-speed rail, but operating costs are much lower because it’s much more energy efficient;’ says Mark. “In most modes of travel, 85 per cent of energy consumption is used to overcome air resistance. You don’t have that in a vacuum.”
Others remain skeptical about its practicality. “The capacity of moving people will be much lower;” says Dr. Robert Noland, director of the Alan M Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University in the US. “Currently, the capsules are smaller than a train.”
The first passenger pod certified in Europe by the Technical University of Munich can carry only five people and lacks basic amenities like restrooms. This limited capacity could keep ticket prices high. Noland believes investment should instead focus on improving existing transportation systems.
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University conducts research on transportation policy through its various centers focused on community development and related fields, according to its official website. The school operates as part of Rutgers University and emphasizes creating socially inclusive and sustainable communities at multiple levels worldwide.