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New hyperloop technologies are able to move thousands of containers a day while offering a sustainable approach to freight transport, it has been claimed.

The new technologies, which are being developed by Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT) in partnership with logistics company Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA), allow port operators to transport containerised cargo hundreds of kilometres in minutes, in theory moving up to 2,800 containers a day.

HTT and HHLA claim the technologies will be capable of transporting 45ft containers at aeroplane speeds.

Hyperloop technologies decrease pollution by reducing congestion at ports and would address current capacity concerns, the companies claim. 

“The HyperPort can future-proof supply chains while returning valuable seaside real estate back to surrounding communities,” said Andres De Leon, CEO of HyperloopTT. “Our work with world-leading firms to move this technology forward is a significant revenue opportunity for port operators all around the world.”

Gerlinde John, project manager HyperPort at HHLA, said: “The hyperloop technology is suitable for taking the transport of goods to a new level. With the HyperPort concept, we are developing an alternative solution to existing transport systems for the goods transport of the future for a fast-growing global market.”

A hyperloop is a mode of transport that sends pods at high speeds through low pressure tubes, which reduces friction and wind resistance, allowing them to travel at speeds equivalent to that of aeroplanes but at much lower costs.

HyperPorts form part of a series of developments of hyperloop technologies that look to revolutionise the transport and freight industry.Virgin previously announced a partnership with DP World to develop freight transport, and the first hyperloop passenger test took place in 2020, reaching speeds of up to 107mph.