In The Loop

Hyperloop technology has the potential to revolutionise transportation networks. Following the announcement to build a route from UAE capital Abu Dhabi to Al Ain using the vast vacuum tubes, James Dartnell spoke with the chairman and co-founder of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies, Bibop Gresta, and heard what HTT’s arrival will mean for enterprise technology.

Even for a region where city life is fast-paced – and driving speeds are even faster – maximum speeds of 760 miles per hour on public transport are sure to transform life in the UAE.

That is the plan of Bibop Gresta, chairman and co-founder of Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT), whose company has entered into an agreement with the Abu Dhabi government to build a connection from the UAE capital to neighbouring city Al Ain.

Hyperloop propels a pod-like vehicle through a near-vacuum tube at speeds faster than an aircraft. Pods accelerate gradually using a linear electric motor, and glide above the track using passive magnetic levitation or air bearings. Aside from unprecedented speeds for public transport, Hyperloop is also expected to be autonomous and energy-efficient.

Since its formation in 2013, HTT has grown its operations to 800 employees across 38 countries. The firm is currently locked in a battle with rival firms for who can launch the first fully-fledged system, and is in the process of developing a route from Vienna to Bratislava.

The office of HH Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan signed the strategic partnership with HTT in support of the project. The partnership aims to allow the company to accelerate the pace of development, following a feasibility study agreement signed between HTT and the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipal Affairs and Transportation (DMAT) in November. The sponsorship is the latest in a string of contributions that have allowed HTT to surpass $100 million in total investments.