TED Talks Daily

Super speed, magnetic levitation and the vision behind the hyperloop | Josh Giegel

Nov 13, 2021
Josh Giegel, an innovative engineer and the hyperloop's first passenger, shares insights into a groundbreaking transportation system. He discusses how the hyperloop could revolutionize commutes, turning hour-long journeys into mere minutes. The technology uses magnetic levitation and vacuum-sealed tubes for incredible speed while promising environmental benefits. Giegel also highlights the challenges faced in development, showcasing the collaborative spirit that makes this futuristic travel vision a reality.
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ANECDOTE

Hyperloop vs. Airplane

  • Josh Giegel compares the Hyperloop experience to riding in a giant aluminum can at 500 mph.
  • He contrasts this with the surprisingly mundane experience of modern air travel, highlighting how once-revolutionary technologies become normalized.
INSIGHT

Hyperloop's Origins

  • Robert Goddard, after the Wright brothers' first flight, envisioned a high-speed ground transit system with minimal air resistance.
  • This concept, known as the "VAC train," is a precursor to the modern Hyperloop idea.
INSIGHT

Hyperloop Explained

  • The Hyperloop is a transit system using a pod in a subway-sized tube with reduced air pressure.
  • This design enables high speeds with a fraction of the energy used by aircraft.
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