Debating the Hyperloop Deployment Timeline


A report released last week concluded that developers of the innovative system are far too optimistic in predicting commercial operation by 2030.

Developers of proposed hyperloop systems with ties to Pittsburgh strongly dispute an international research firm’s conclusion that the lack of government regulations and financing difficulties will delay the first travel through high-speed, low-pressure tubes until at least 2040.

Lux Research Inc., based in Boston and with offices in three other countries, released a report last week that concluded developers of the innovative system are far too optimistic in predicting commercial operation by 2030. Their researchers say the technology is available to move passengers at up to 700 miles an hour in pods, but the lack of a certified test facility for government regulation and the high cost will delay development of the systems.

“Lux has found that, while the Hyperloop concept is technically feasible, it will require significant development to become cost-effective,” the company said in a news release. “As proposed Hyperloop projects are seeing increasingly large estimates in cost per mile, and key variables in operating costs are unknown, Hyperloop projects are a long way from proving economic feasibility.

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