Dubai’s DP World to assess hyperloop transport system

Dubai ports operator DP World has launched a study to explore the possibility of using high-speed transport technology hyperloop to move containers from its home Jebel Ali Port to an inland storage depot.

As part of a memorandum of understanding with Los-Angeles-based Hyperloop One, DP World will launch a feasibility study for the project, which could be rolled out to other global destinations if it is successful.

The initial study will focus on efficient handling of containers, costs, benefits, demand and volume patterns of moving cargo using hyperloop, according to the company.

“The world is changing at a pace never seen before in our history and we intend to be part of a new revolution in transport, connecting markets and economies around the world,” said DP World group chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

Hyperloop, a conceptual high speed transportation system originally put forward by entrepreneur Elon Musk, involves the use of pressurised tubes to transport human and freight cargo at speeds of up to 1,100kmh.

Hyperloop One is among several companies competing to bring the technology to market and is also conducting feasibility studies in Russia, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland and the US, according to reports.

The firm opened a tooling and fabrication site in North Las Vegas last month to produce custom equipment and components for testing.

“This partnership allows us to embrace the innovation of the UAE and to utilise the creativity of DP World, while expanding the variety of use cases for hyperloop,” said Hyperloop One CEO Rob Lloyd. “The UAE has taken a leadership role in pushing global transportation solutions to the forefront and we believe that it is the perfect market for hyperloop.”

Lloyd previously predicted the emirate could be one of three initial markets to embrace the technology at a conference this year.

Read: Dubai could be one of three initial markets for hyperloop travel

Earlier this month, Dubai Future Foundation said it was planning to hold an international competition to design a hyperloop project allowing people to travel between Dubai and Fujairah in less than 10 minutes.

Read: Hyperloop train to travel from Dubai to Fujairah in ‘less than 10 minutes’