Virgin Hyperloop, Spirit AeroSystems announce collaboration agreement

Virgin Hyperloop and Spirit AeroSystems have partnered to help solidify the hyperloop prototype utilizing Spirit AeroSystems’ engineers, fabricators, builders, supply chain and certification experts and technicians.

“As one of the most credible aerospace-grade structures companies in the world, Spirit AeroSystems provides a strong fit for our team as we look to build out strong partners in the hyperloop ecosystem,” said Josh Giegel, chief technology officer, Virgin Hyperloop.

Hyperloop is a new mode of transportation designed to eliminate the barriers of distance and time for both people and freight. It can travel at speeds approaching 700 mph, connecting cities like metro stops -- and it has zero direct emissions. With hyperloop, vehicles, called pods, accelerate gradually via electric propulsion through a low-pressure tube. The pod floats along the track using magnetic levitation and glides at airline speeds for long distances due to ultra-low aerodynamic drag.

The hyperloop supply chain is unique in the way it integrates existing technology with proprietary innovations to deliver a completely new transport experience, says Virgin Hyperloop. The pod is similar to an airplane fuselage in a low-pressure environment, the columns similar to those of a pipeline, and the pressure management system similar to those used in industrial operations such as manufacturing semiconductors.

“As a new form of mass transportation, hyperloop opens up a new segment of diversification for us in the transportation space. Our collaboration with Virgin Hyperloop is a prime example of our belief that this burgeoning industry is a game changer,” said Keith Hamilton, Spirit AeroSystems executive director of programs and business development. “Through leveraging our values and core competencies of designing and manufacturing aerostructures, many of the skills are transferable to produce the hyperloop bogie.”