The Hyperloop Dilemma: Why the Futuristic Transit System Remains Elusive

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The Hyperloop, proposed by Elon Musk in 2012, was envisioned as a revolutionary high-speed transport system, where pods would travel through low-pressure or vacuum tubes at near-supersonic speeds. Initially hailed as the future of transportation, the concept gained global attention, with companies and governments in the US, Canada, Europe, India, and recently South Korea investing in its development.

Startups like Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) and Virgin Hyperloop One led the charge, but tangible progress has been slow. SpaceX removed its California test track by 2022, and Virgin Hyperloop One shut down in 2023.

Experts caution that the Hyperloop is not yet viable. Building a vacuum tube system for human transport over long distances is fraught with technical challenges. Any breach could lead to a serious accident, and the tubes are vulnerable to temperature, humidity, and structural stress. Additionally, high-speed movement within these tubes can encounter unexpected air resistance, further complicating safe operation.

Despite these challenges, development continues in some countries, with strong government backing in places like China. Advocates believe breakthroughs could eventually make Hyperloop travel feasible — but how soon remains uncertain.

Japan has so far stayed out of the Hyperloop race, opting instead for a wait-and-see approach. Given the lack of practical results so far, this cautious stance appears to be justified.

View based on: https://www.msn.com/ja-jp/news/opinion/ ... r-AA1Dws0c Accessed 2025-04-25