The new announcement regarding the Hyperloop system, first proposed by Elon Musk in 2012, comes from Zaha Hadid Architects, which plans to partner with Hyperloop Italia to design architecture and infrastructure around the high speed transit system.
The system uses low-pressure, nearly airless tubes and magnetic currents to propel magnetically levitating passenger pods. The pioneering design firm will be working alongside the engineers and developers from Hyperloop to create the “next phase” of work, according to a statement from the firm principal, Patrik Schumacher.
“We are looking forward to collaborating with Hyperloop Italia; marrying transformative architecture, engineering and urban planning with the most efficient and sustainable transport network to significantly improve accessibility, connectivity, and well-being in our cities,” Schumacher said in a statement—presumably referring to the pods and architecture of station stops.
Feasibility tests for the projected route are already being performed by Hyperloop Italia, more specifically, the distance from Milan to Malpensa Airport, if successful, will be covered in 10 minutes, compared to 43 that is the usual travel time.
In addition to the time saved, the project will also be fueled entirely by renewable resources. The Hyperloop founders and Zaha Hadid Architects have emphasized the importance of using renewable energy sources, merging the advancement of technology with the importance of energy conservation.