The Pros and Cons of Hyperloop Transportation

November 07, 2017

A hyperloop is a mode of passenger and/or freight transportation designed by Elon Musk’s Tesla and SpaceX companies. It uses a sealed tube through which a magnetic-levitating pod may travel with less resistance for increased speed and acceleration over trains or planes. The proposed hyperloop system could operate below ground, above ground or under water.

Here are some of the projected pros and cons of Hyperloop transportation

Pros

Fast, efficient and cheap to operate

Average speeds of around 600 mph (970 km/h), with a top speed of 760 mph (1,200 km/h)

Low power consumption

Uses Solar Energy for power

Open-sourced, encouraging others to take the ideas and further develop them.

Hyperloops tubes are protected from the weather, birds, objects on railroad tracks.

In the event of equipment or electrical failure, the system comes to a stop (does not fall from the sky).

Automation reduces the risk of human error

Promotes economic growth around the Hyperloop route

Reduced freight costs and times

Cons

High cost of development and construction

Susceptible to disruption from earthquakes, power outages or terror attacks

No sharp curves or abrupt height changes in the route

Potential for rapid decompression of the tube or passenger space

Vibration and jostling caused by high speeds

People will not be able to move freely during travel (no bathroom?)

Unproven system