Albeit at low speeds, Hyperloop One announced that it privately tested its low resistance transport system in full vacuum conditions on May 12. The company deployed a bare sled along its DevLoop electromagnetic track in the Nevada desert. The sled travelled 500 meters in 5.3 seconds to reach 70 mph and 2Gs acceleration. The vacuum environment minimizes resistance as the sled levitates on the track due to electromagnetic propulsion and magnetic levitation technology.
In the announcement, the company also unveiled its first pod prototype, shown above. The new pod is 28-ft. long and made out of aluminum and carbon fiber with a high strength to weight ratio.
Hyperloop One will continue testing to validate the pod’s linear induction motor (sketched above) and suspension, as well as its magnetic levitation technology and electromagnetic braking. Phase 2 testing will be conducted at target speeds of 250 mph, and will continue to test software and the proprietary vacuum pumping system.
Watch the testing video below.
"Hyperloop One has accomplished what no one has done before by successfully testing the first full scale Hyperloop system. By achieving full vacuum, we essentially invented our own sky in a tube, as if you're flying at 200,000 feet in the air," says Hyperloop One co-founder and Executive Chairman, Shervin Pishevar. "For the first time in over 100 years, a new mode of transportation has been introduced.”