Two provinces are still competing to host the European Hyperloop Centre: Groningen and Zeeland. The hyperloop track, from the quiver of the Delfste Hardt Hyperloop, should be ready for use in 2022.
Several provinces showed willingness to serve as locations for the three-kilometre-long test track. Hardt Hyperloop, together with an expert committee, decided that Groningen and Zeeland are still in the race. "Two provinces with an interesting proposal," said Tim Houter, CEO of Hardt Hyperloop. The final location will be chosen within a month.
Alternative to short flights
The European Hyperloop Centre (EHC) should serve as a test site not only for Hardt Hyperloop but also for other developers. The EHC will consist of a three-kilometre-long test track and a research lab. Tests should show whether the hyperloop is a viable alternative to short-haul flights. According to Hardt Hyperloop, the transport technology can provide a solution for the growing number of passengers and cargo worldwide.
Investment of 10 million euros
Hardt Hyperloop received a 10-million-euro investment in November for the realisation of the EHC. For now, the transport technology has been tested on a 30-metre track. However, that is insufficient to reach top speeds of 700 kilometres per hour.
