A new cargo delivery system that could dramatically reduce transport times and cut costs may be on its way. DP World Cargospeed, a collaboration between Virgin Hyperloop One and supply chain firm DP World, claims it would deliver goods on land at the speed of flight through the use of Hyperloop technology.
Hyperloop transportation, originally conceived by Elon Musk, is being tested and developed by a number of companies. Its all-electric technology uses a sealed capsule inside a vacuum tube propelled by magnetic levitation.
DP World Cargospeed’s system would use a linear electric motor to propel the cargo capsule magnetically through a near-vacuum steel tube. A series of pumps would remove almost all of the air from the tube. This reduces air friction and drag, and allows for a fast, energy-efficient and quiet commute.
The system’s ports would synchronize Virgin Hyperloop One’s transportation technology with DP World’s automation and logistics expertise to create autonomous, intelligent, on-demand movement of cargo. As a result, the company could “deliver freight at the speed of flight and closer to the cost of trucking,” Virgin Hyperloop One CEO Rob Lloyd wrote in a blog post.
Virgin Hyperloop One’s test capsule has reached speeds of 387 kmph (240 mph) in tests. This speed could reduce a four-day truck journey to about 16 hours, reducing costs, time and effect on the environment. The company predicts it will send cargo at a top speed of 1,000 kmph (621 mph).
The Hyperloop cargo system would link to existing roads, rail and air infrastructure. Company materials released with the announcement seem to suggest that drones would be used to carry the cargo from the Hyperloop ports to their destination.
In addition to transporting freight, the system could also carry passengers. In a mixed-use system, the hyperloop could carry mainly passengers during peak commute hours and switch to freight at other times.
Details of the routes and construction timelines have not been announced. The first stage of a feasibility study has been completed; the next stage will include study and development of safety and technological elements.
Hyperloop continues to show promise in revolutionizing the way we travel and transport goods more rapidly and efficiently. “The biggest selling point [of a hyperloop] is time. Time you can’t buy,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, CEO of DP World.
Read more about Hyperloop technology at Hyperloop – The Story So Far.