Hyperloop Technologies proposes 700-800 km project for AP in three phases

Presents pre-feasibility study for Anantapur-Vizag route that also connects new capital Amaravati

US-based Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) today presented a pre-feasibility route study to Andhra Pradesh officials proposing a Hyperloop transport system with a length of 700-800 km from Anantapur in the south to the port town of Visakhapatnam in the north of the state while connecting the new capital Amaravati in the center.

The company suggested execution in three phases with the initial phase running into 5-10 km straight section at Amaravati to demonstrate the working and benefits of the most modern ground transportation system. It says the northern and the southern sections can be built in two phases or can be undertaken simultaneously.

Hyperloop is based on a concept in which a passenger capsule moves in a vacuum tube at high speeds. Hyperloop-based system was yet to be implemented anywhere in the world on a commercial scale.

Last year AP chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu asked HTT to get back with a workable plan to execute the project and also demonstrate the technology by building a 15-20 km stretch between Vijayawada and Amaravati in the initial stage.

HTT also proposes to set up a manufacturing complex that will focus on several aspects of Hyperloop project such as building the Tube, Capsule, track and 3D printing in AP, according to the officials. However, the financial aspects were not discussed at this meeting.

"The Hyperloop TT system is an emerging form of ultra-high-speed ground transportation system that moves people and freight. By undertaking this project, Andhra Pradesh and India would signal their desire to create a globally competitive region fuelled by ultra-high-speed mobility that is environment positive, energy efficient and sustainable. Hyperloop TT designs its systems to generate revenue and create employment opportunities, and does not depend on costly government subsidies unlike other transportation systems," Bibop Gresta, chairman and co-founder of HTT said during the presentation.

HTT has associated with Hyderabad-based Aarvee Associates to prepare the pre-feasibility and feasibility studies.