Today, the European Commission presented a new fact-finding study assessing the current state of the European hyperloop sector and exploring possible avenues for EU support.
Hyperloop has the potential to dramatically reduce travel times across the continent, delivering ultra-high-speed, low-emission passenger and freight mobility. While the technology is not in use yet, the study finds that the European hyperloop sector has progressed beyond the design stage, with several European developers at the forefront of global testing and prototyping efforts.
The study highlights that hyperloop is maturing quickly and could soon move from prototyping to demonstration. Its potential to contribute to decarbonisation, digitalisation, regional cohesion and industrial renewal makes it strategically relevant for the EU. At the same time, the sector also faces challenges such as uncertain business cases, high capital costs, and regulatory fragmentation.
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism said: “Today’s study shows that hyperloop technology could play a role in how Europe moves people and goods in the future. As we work towards a more connected and competitive Union, the EU will continue to support technologies like hyperloop that contribute to industrial innovation, regional cohesion and sustainability.”
The European Commission supports hyperloop development by enabling innovation, experimentation, and long-term coherence across national and regional systems. Through the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking, the EU co-funds the Hyper4rail project (....)