India Takes Major Step Towards Hyperloop Innovation.
India is poised to take a giant leap in the world of futuristic transportation with plans to build the world’s longest hyperloop test facility, a move that could revolutionise mass transit and reshape the nation’s infrastructure. Set to achieve speeds of up to 1,100 kilometres per hour, this hyperloop system aims to reimagine how goods and people are transported across long distances. The announcement follows the successful completion of a 422-metre test track in December 2024, an initial step in assessing the commercial viability of hyperloop technology.
A senior government official confirmed that preparations are underway for the construction of a 40–50-kilometre test track, which will be supported by Indian Railways. This marks a significant step towards realising the vision of hyperloop as a high-speed mass transit solution. Unlike traditional rail systems, hyperloop uses advanced technologies that leverage air-bearing surfaces and low-pressure tubes to reduce friction and enable unprecedented speeds. The innovative transportation system promises to be more efficient and cost-effective than conventional alternatives, with a potential to reshape how India’s sprawling cities and industrial hubs are connected.
The 422-metre test track, established through a collaboration between Indian Railways, L&T Constructions, and Avishkar Hyperloop at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, marks the first successful attempt at creating a vacuum tube system capable of supporting hyperloop pods. TuTr Hyperloop, a deep-tech venture incubated at IIT Madras, recently conducted India’s first commercial intent hyperloop pod run, signalling an important milestone in the nation’s pursuit of cutting-edge transportation technologies. The company has been working alongside Indian Railways to push this technology forward, focusing on creating efficient and sustainable transport solutions for India. The potential for hyperloop technology in India is vast, given the country’s large and rapidly growing population, combined with its pressing need for efficient, eco-friendly transport systems. offecial of Swisspod Technologies, one of the key players in the global hyperloop movement, has expressed confidence in India’s capacity to adopt this technology. Tudor noted that the estimated cost for a 40-kilometre test track would range between $150 to $300 million, depending on the project’s specifications, highlighting the manageable financial commitment for a country with such a high demand for innovative transportation solutions.
The hyperloop project is not just about high-speed transit—it is part of a broader vision to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable mobility solutions in India. With the support of both the Indian and Swiss governments, as well as backing from prominent figures like Elon Musk, who serves as a senior advisor to Swisspod Technologies, the collaboration between Indian and international firms is a testament to the potential for cross-border innovation in addressing India’s transport challenges. Looking beyond India, the global hyperloop movement continues to evolve, with companies like Virgin Hyperloop and TransPod making progress on their respective systems. While Virgin Hyperloop has now shifted its focus to freight transport applications due to the complexities involved in passenger certification, TransPod is working on developing unique propulsion and levitation mechanisms. In China, plans for a similar system are underway, aiming to achieve even higher speeds and hypersonic velocities.
For India, the hyperloop test facility represents more than just an engineering marvel. It is an opportunity to leapfrog traditional infrastructure bottlenecks and embrace a cleaner, more efficient way of connecting its cities. As the country continues to develop its smart cities and push towards a zero-carbon future, hyperloop technology could serve as a crucial component in building a sustainable transport ecosystem that is accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly. By harnessing the power of innovative technologies like hyperloop, India is not only positioning itself as a leader in the transport sector but also creating a sustainable future for its growing population. The long-term vision is clear—India aims to be at the forefront of global efforts to redefine the way we move and connect across vast distances, all while adhering to the principles of sustainability, innovation, and equitable growth.
