Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Virgin Hyperloop to unveil its full-scale commercial pods at Expo 2020 Dubai

Virgin Hyperloop announced that they will be showcasing a full-scale hyperloop cargo pod and a cutaway passenger pod as part of DP World’s FLOW pavilion at the Expo 2020 global trade fair in Dubai, offering visitors a glimpse at the future of transport.

The American transportation technology company has presented new versions of its pods over the years. After the first test with human passengers last year, the company shared a concept video that took the viewer step-by-step through a hyperloop journey, from arriving at the portal to boarding the pod in January this year. The hyperloop system was billed as the first commercial vehicle capable of carrying up to 28 passengers and reaching speeds close to 1,200 km/h (745 mph). Recently, it unveiled its transportation concept with more design upgrades.

“The constant flow of goods has historically driven innovation in the transportation sector, and now more than ever, we must continue to future-proof the industry,” said Sultan bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World and Virgin Hyperloop. “Hyperloop is poised to revolutionize the global on-demand logistics market, and we are excited to share our vision for the technology in the DP World FLOW pavilion at Expo 2020.”

The passenger cutaway pod that Virgin Hyperloop will exhibit at the DP World pavilion at Expo 2020.
The passenger cutaway pod that Virgin Hyperloop will exhibit at the DP World pavilion at Expo 2020. Credit: Virgin Hyperloop

Virgin Hyperloop has partnered with DP World to explore ultra-fast cargo transport in the United Arab Emirates. At the FLOW pavilion for DP World, visitors will see a full-scale commercial cargo pod replica, which measures nearly 10 meters long. Guests will also be able to sit inside a cutaway passenger pod complete with production-intent finishes to see what a future journey on the hyperloop will feel like. Interactive displays, videos, and models will surround the pod, showcasing hyperloop technology and its future impact on major global sectors.

“World Expos have been debuting the most cutting-edge innovations for centuries, so we are honored to showcase hyperloop technology on this global stage with DP World,” said Josh Giegel, CEO and Co-Founder of Virgin Hyperloop. “I hope that visitors will be able to imagine the not-too-distant future in which they are passengers on a commercial hyperloop system in the Gulf region and beyond.”

The pavilion opens as part of Expo 2020 on 1 October 2021 and runs through 31 March 2022.