Hyperloop One shuts down: the end of a high-speed dream

This closure marks the end of an ambitious journey that aimed to revolutionise travel by propelling passengers at high speeds through vacuum-sealed tubes.

Hyperloop One, inspired by an idea from entrepreneur Elon Musk, aspired to drastically slash travel durations. The concept hinged on magnetic levitation (maglev) technology, already in use in some current transit systems, but with a distinctive twist. The trains would operate within a vacuum tube, mitigating friction and air resistance, potentially reaching speeds of up to 700mph (1,127km/h).

The company's vision promised not only speed but also a greener alternative to existing high-speed transport methods. Despite these lofty aspirations and initial backing from high-profile figures like Virgin founder Richard Branson, Hyperloop One struggled to turn its ideas into a viable reality. Branson eventually withdrew his support last year, a move that signalled growing challenges for the company.

Based in the Nevada desert, Hyperloop One did manage to construct some prototypes. However, significant engineering challenges and practical considerations, such as the need for extensive straight-line tube construction across varied landscapes, hampered progress. Furthermore, the company's technology faced difficulties with navigating corners, necessitating a largely linear route design.

A notable achievement was the successful passenger trial in 2020, where two company employees experienced hyperloop technology firsthand. The pod achieved a top speed of 107mph (172km/h) over a 500-metre test track, a significant milestone, albeit short of the envisioned speeds.

In 2022, facing mounting challenges, Hyperloop One announced a strategic pivot, shifting its focus from passenger transport to cargo. This shift was accompanied by over 100 job losses, a precursor to further downsizing later in the year. The departure of Richard Branson and the loss of the Virgin endorsement marked another significant setback for the company.

The closure of Hyperloop One does not, however, signify the end of the hyperloop concept. Originating from a 2013 report published by Elon Musk, the idea continues to inspire innovation. Musk's own firm, The Boring Company, is exploring similar technologies with a focus on underground tunnels. Additionally, several global entities persist in their pursuit of hyperloop-like transportation solutions.