Hyperloop One Moves Forward with Nevada Track

Los Angeles-based Hyperloop One (H1) has released images of the test track its building in Nevada for a high-speed pneumatic transportation system.

The system features a pod levitated by magnets and accelerated on a cushion of air by linear induction motors and air compressors inside a partial-vacuum tube. The controlled environment is designed to minimize friction and air resistance, allowing the pod to quickly achieve speeds of 750 mph with relatively little use of energy.

H1 aims to launch a public pilot program of the system this summer. Commercial applications could begin in international markets by early next decade, the company predicts.

Dubbed DevLoop, H1’s Nevada test tube is 11 feet in diameter and currently is about 1,640-ft long. It isn’t clear if the company plans to extend the track before testing begins.

CEO Rob Lloyd showed photos of the test track during a keynote speech at this week’s Middle East Rail conference in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Last November H1 announced plans to work with road and transit authorities in the UAE to evaluate potential applications.

H1 is one of several companies working on the “hyperloop” high-speed transportation concept proposed by Tesla Motors Inc. CEO Elon Musk in 2013.