The Alberta government is supporting a proposal to build a hyperloop transportation system between Edmonton and Calgary.
The government has reached a memorandum of understanding with Toronto-based company TransPod to research, plan and possibly build a loop between the two cities.
The proposed high-speed train would be completely electric and able to travel upwards of 1,000 kilometres an hour, meaning the trip from Calgary to Edmonton could be as short as 30 minutes.
“Alberta’s government is supporting new and exciting opportunities for job creation and innovation,” said Transportation Minister Ric McIver.
“By supporting TransPod’s feasibility study, Alberta Transportation will provide important information contributing to the research, development, testing, and construction of a full inter-city TransPod line between Edmonton and Calgary. We look forward to seeing this work put Alberta at the forefront of the movement of goods and people.”
The phases of the Alberta TransPod project include conducting a feasibility study over the next two years before moving into a research and development phase until 2024. A test track will be built and tested until 2027.
The MOU will see Alberta Transportation:
- support TransPod undertaking further study on the feasibility of developing its technology in Alberta.
- share available transportation data as appropriate that may assist TransPod in assessing the feasibility of its technology.
- work with TransPod officials to identify suitable land that can safely accommodate a test track.
- participate in discussions with potential large institutional investors where suitable.
No financial commitments or endorsements have been made by Alberta Transportation regarding the TransPod hyperloop project.
“Alberta’s leadership mindset and partnership with TransPod firmly places it at the cutting edge of transportation innovation,” said Sebastien Gendron, co-founder and CEO, TransPod. “Through this strategic agreement that secures the province’s economic future without having to commit any taxpayer dollars, the Government of Alberta is investing in improving growth and quality of life in the region.”
