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Definition: Hyperloop


(1) See hyperlink.

(2) A high-speed ground transportation system proposed in 2013 by Elon Musk. Hyperloop pods ride in a solar-powered, elevated air tube that would mostly follow an existing highway. To reduce resistance, a low pressure environment is created in the tube, and speeds of 700 MPH are projected. For example, if ever built, the 350-mile ride from Los Angeles to San Francisco would take roughly 35 minutes. The LA route never came to fruition, but Hyperloop projects have been undertaken around the world.

Quay Valley Hyperloop
In 2014, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) was formed to create a Hyperloop in Quay Valley, California, a futuristic town to be built with 25,000 homes on 7,500 acres. Although the first Hyperloop test over a short distance was successful in 2016, the Quay Valley project was shuttered a year later. However, HTT is involved in other Hyperloop projects worldwide.

Hyperloop One
Launched in 2014 as Virgin Hyperloop in Los Angeles, the company launched a global challenge for locations, and the U.S., Canada, Mexico, U.K. and India agreed to participate. Hyperloop One had success with its Experimental Pods XP-1 in 2017 and XP-2 in 2020; however, the company closed its doors at the end of 2023.