Video: Hyperloop prototype makes global debut in Dubai

Dubai - Virgin Hyperloop One system will transport goods and people from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 12 minutes.

Daily commuters from Dubai to Abu Dhabi can breathe a sigh of relief, as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has made history by inching one step closer to launching hyperloop.
The transportation authority unveiled the first look into the future of transportation at City Walk 2, Dubai on Thursday. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, took the first look into the hyperloop prototype design, after which it was opened to visitors.
The ultra-fast levitating capsule can travel at 1,200kmph, transporting passengers from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back in 12 minutes. Furthermore, it will take 17 minutes to travel from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah.
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In an interview with Khaleej Times, Abdulredha Abu Alhassan, executive director of the Rail Planning and Projects Development at the RTA, said: "According to initial studies, it will have a capacity to lift 10,000 riders per hour in both directions.
Commenting on an official launch date, Alhassan said that the project is still under testing and it would be hard to ascertain the exact date of launch. He said: "We are still working on the ticket pricing details as well."
When introduced in future, the hyperloop technology will impact the town planning and the availability of parking spaces. It will revolutionise people's mobility between various destinations in the city, logistical hubs like airports and ports, and shipping patterns.
The hyperloop seats have been designed by German car manufacturer BMW, and passengers would need to be seated at all times, with buckled seatbelts, given the speed at which is travels. Alhassan said: "There will be no windows. However, there will be interactive entertainment screens at the arm rest of the seats. The seats have been designed in a very futuristic manner."  The hyperloop will be divided into two classes, a gold class and a silver class. Five passengers can be seated in the Gold Class and 14 in the Silver Class.
Renee D'sa, an eight-year-old resident of Dubai and one of the first visitors inside the prototype, said: "It is Beautiful on the inside. The seats are comfortable and the headrest is amazing. I want to go and visit Fujairah. I'm excited that it would go so fast."
People have stated that they are willing to pay up to Dh1,000 to take a trip in thee hyperloop.
dhanusha@khaleejtimes.com  
 

• Dubai