All about the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Virgin Hyperloop One project
Does travelling between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in just 12 minutes sound like a dream to you? It may seem like a far-fetched idea. However, the city is already in the race to translate this appealing idea into reality with the new era of transportation called Virgin Hyperloop One. We gave you a brief insight into this next-generation marvel along with other futuristic projects in Dubai. Today we are bringing you all the information about the upcoming hyperloop Dubai project, called Hyperloop One.
Everything you need to know about the Hyperloop Dubai project
Reimagining the future of transportation, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is inching a few steps closer to the launch of the world’s first hyperloop in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Dubai is already well on its way to reveal the first hyperloop project in the region; Virgin Hyperloop One.
Popularly known as hyperloop Dubai or the Virgin Hyperloop One, this multi-billion dollar project will reduce the time for travelling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi from an hour or so to 12 minutes. It will become the popular choice among other options for those wondering how to go to Abu Dhabi from Dubai.
The city has already seen the concept’s debut at the Dubai International Motor Show in 2019. Scaled to actual size, the prototype of the Virgin Hyperloop One passenger pods was a scene-stealer and offered visitors a glimpse of the driver-free transportation of the next generation.
The completion date of the project is yet to be confirmed.
What is the Virgin Hyperloop One and how does it work?
Virgin Hyperloop One is a fast and effortless mode of transportation that carries passengers as well as freight straight from the origin to the destination in record time. This super-fast tube system involves a suspended capsule that consists of multiple passenger/cargo pods in a near-vacuum environment. With an outstanding speed of up to 1,123 km/h, the capsule glides through electric propulsion and magnetic levitation, requiring minimal energy. This happens with the help of a proprietary linear electric-motor system, no-contact electromagnetism and ultra-low aerodynamic drag.
Highlights
- The Virgin Hyperloop One system in Dubai is 100% electric.
- Associated with the sound of ‘just a big whoosh’, the noise levels of the pods are significantly lower than other forms of transportation. This will help minimise noise pollution.
- The Hyperloop Dubai speed will be equivalent to aeroplane’s speed. The top speed is estimated to be 760 miles per hour which is about 1,123 kilometres per hour. The average speed may range between 500 and 600 miles per hour.
- While over 10,000 travellers can be transported both ways every hour, the system resizes the fleet of pods according to the existing number of passengers.
- Windows are not present, however, each seat will be equipped with interactive entertainment screens.
- The Abu Dhabi -Dubai hyperloop capsule will feature two sections: Gold Class includes seats for five passengers while Silver Class will accommodate 14 commuters.
- The proposed location of the Hyperportal – stations from where the pods will depart – is near Burj Khalifa in Dubai and Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi.
How will Hyperloop Dubai benefit the community?
Originally envisioned by technology entrepreneur Elon Musk, the hyperloop concept was adopted by Virgin Hyperloop One to provide a technology that will redefine transportation in the near future.
The fundamental idea is to reduce pollution, road congestion and commute time. Residents can access job opportunities not in just one city but across the border country too, without the need to uproot one’s home, family and current lifestyle. Therefore, this rapid transport technology can change everyone’s lives. For instance, a resident living in the apartments for rent in Mussafah, which are generally on the more affordable side, will be able to travel to Dubai for work in less than 15 minutes. This is a significant drop from the one and half hour journey that is the norm now.
Businesses in the UAE will also greatly benefit. The main focus is on high-priority consumer goods such as fresh food and medical supplies that require immediate delivery. With faster transportation of goods over longer distances, Hyperloop-enabled industries will own an efficient logistics system that results in substantial business growth.
Hyperloop Dubai safety measures
Involving no contact with wildlife, other vehicles or dangerous grade crossings, the transport system is either structured on high-rise columns or built-in underground tunnels. Since it is enclosed and fully autonomous, the pods do not require pilots to operate. This eliminates risk factors such as weather hazards and driver-related errors. The tubes through which the pods will glide are built with puncture-proof, thick and sturdy steel that can withstand changes in air pressure. Every pod will include emergency exits.
Although the hyperloop between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is fast, the technology will involve acceleration and deceleration within safe limits. Passengers will have to be seated throughout the trip with buckled seatbelts. Travelling in it would feel no different than riding in an elevator or an aeroplane. Hyperloop Dubai will have a dedicated safety team working with RTA to implement protocols and the best safety practices.
How is the hyperloop different from high-speed trains?
Metro trains follow a fixed schedule and have multiple stops. However, Hyperloop Dubai departs on demand whenever the passengers are ready to go and transports them directly to their destination without taking any stop along the way. It also operates two to three times faster than the fastest train.
Hyperloop Dubai speed
As per the pods that were unveiled at the Motor Show, the Abu Dhabi to Dubai hyperloop speed reaches up to a whopping 1,123 km/h!
FAQS
What is the Hyperloop Dubai launch date?
The Hyperloop Dubai construction is already underway. As the first phase of the project which involves feasibility studies in Dubai for potential hyperloop routes continues, Phase 2 work is also being discussed.
How much will the Hyperloop Dubai ticket cost?
The ticket prices have not yet been revealed but they are anticipated to be affordable. It is likely that the cost would be closer to driving than flying.
Now that you have learned all about the much-anticipated commercial hyperloop in Dubai, get a scoop on other innovative Dubai-based projects. And until this project is completed, there are plenty of other means of public transportation in Abu Dhabi that residents and tourists can take advantage of. Similarly, if you are on the lookout for hassle-free ways to get around Dubai, take a look at the public transport apps in the city.
Cover Image Credit: Virgin Hyperloop One
