The global terminal operator signed an agreement with Hyperloop One in Los Angeles recently to evaluate the use of the new technology and explore what it believes could be a “global transport revolution”.
The collaboration is for feasibility studies that will focus on efficient handling of containers, cost benefits, demand and volume patterns of moving cargo using the new technology.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, group chairman and ceo of DP World, said smart innovation was “part of Dubai’s DNA” and had the potential to transform the future of world trade.
“The world is changing at a pace never seen before in our history and we intend to be part of a new revolution in transport, connecting markets and economies around the world,” Sulayem said.
“With this collaboration, we’re leading innovation in our industry once again and by testing the Hyperloop technology at Jebel Ali for cargo use, we’re taking a first step in exploring new ways of enabling trade and underlining Dubai’s commitment to innovation.
“This is an example of leading innovation in our industry and pushing the boundaries in the delivery of goods. The potential to use these kind of technologies in emerging markets outside the UAE such as Africa and Asia with large land mass is significant.”
Hyperloop One ceo Rob Lloyd said: “Hyperloop One is pleased to extend our global footprint into the Middle East with the signing of the MOU with the United Arab Emirates and DP World.
“This partnership allows us to embrace the innovation of the UAE and to utilise the creativity of DP World, while expanding the variety of use cases for Hyperloop.
“The UAE has taken a leadership role in pushing global transportation solutions to the forefront and we believe that it is the perfect market for Hyperloop.”
Dubai’s government has ramped up efforts to spearhead the development of Hyperloop technology globally.
The Dubai Future Foundation recently announced an international competition that will take place over 48 mind-bending hours in Dubai in September, bringing together 100 scientists, engineers and tech experts to design a Hyperloop station, ‘track’ and system (see image above) that will take passengers from Dubai to Fujairah in 10 minutes.
The trip currently takes about 90 minutes by car.
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