The Hyperloop concept is shifting rapidly from futuristic theory to practical reality at the newly opened European Hyperloop Centre (EHC) in Veendam, the Netherlands. The site represents a milestone for Europe as it brings together all the essential components of the system in one location, creating a collaborative hub where international developers can refine technologies and forge cross-border partnerships.

For Europe, open borders are a defining achievement. The everyday ease of crossing between countries without checkpoints is a powerful symbol of integration, and the Hyperloop mirrors this same spirit of speed, connectivity and innovation on a new scale. The choice of Groningen, close to the German border within the Ems-Dollart Region, underscores the project’s symbolic commitment to seamless regional and international movement.

Inside the European Hyperloop Centre

At the centre of the facility lies a 420-metre-long tube, assembled from 34 sections and featuring a unique switch mechanism branching off from one end. Designed as an open innovation environment, it enables researchers and industry partners from across the globe to test propulsion, levitation, stabilisation and switching at speeds up to 100 km/h. By lowering air pressure inside the tube to just one millibar, air resistance is almost eliminated, dramatically reducing energy consumption and positioning Hyperloop as one of the most sustainable transport solutions under development. Managing Director Kees Mark has also stressed that the vacuum technologies developed here have applications well beyond mobility.

The EHC is supported by a broad coalition of industry players such as Hardt Hyperloop, POSCO, TATA Steel, Mercon, Denys, and Avitec, alongside technology partners including Hive and Bytesnet Groningen. Passenger capsule prototypes are already being tested with VR simulations and user feedback, while the Hyperloop Development Programme (HDP) – a public–private partnership – coordinates research and industrial collaboration across leading universities in Munich, Delft, Groningen, Emden/Leer, and Switzerland’s EPFL.

Testing the Future of Mobility

The facility opened to the public in September 2024 with a demonstration run using magnetic levitation rather than wheels, with pods reaching 30 km/h. According to Marinus von der Meijs, Technology and Engineering Director at Hardt Hyperloop, the next stage will involve full-speed testing and lane-switching, a crucial step before passenger services can be launched – something anticipated around 2030.

Visitors to the tube describe a strikingly futuristic atmosphere, with strips of coloured light along the walls enhancing the sensation of levitation and motion. Integrated systems for power, braking, communication and data are already in place, while pods are kept lightweight by minimising onboard equipment. At the switching junction, the greatest technical challenges emerge: stabilising pods while compensating for heat, centrifugal force and magnetic pressure. Here, researchers at Delft University of Technology have made significant breakthroughs.

Political Momentum and Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Mark notes that governments are beginning to integrate Hyperloop into their long-term mobility strategies, a sign of increasing political momentum. While he avoided predicting the location of the first commercial line, he stressed that Europe has the right combination of political will, technological expertise and collaborative spirit to lead the global race.

If successful, the Hyperloop could become not only a flagship European innovation but also a transformative model of sustainable, borderless transport.

Written by: 

*Cole Jackson

Lead Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group

Chinese & South American Specialist

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