Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT, HTT) appointed a design lead for its planned project on the Dubai-Abu Dhabi border, in a major step towards making the futuristic commercial travel system a reality in the UAE.
A team led by Lebanese design and engineering giant Dar Al-Handasah will begin construction of the first commercial Hyperloop system in Abu Dhabi in Q3 2019.
In addition to joining the project as design lead, the Dar Al-Handasah is also on board as investor with HyperloopTT.
HyperloopTT signed an MoU with listed property firm Aldar Properties in April this year to develop a new HyperloopTT centre that will include a full scale commercial Hyperloop system, an XO Square Innovation Centre and Hyperloop Experience Centre.
The proposed site is within Aldar’s Seih Al Sderieh landbank, located on the border of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, close to the Expo 2020 site and Al Maktoum International Airport.
Construction of the Hyperloop commercial track, as well as HyperloopTT’s XO Square Innovation Centre and Hyperloop Experience Centre, is targeted to begin in Q3 2019.
“We are bringing the future of rapid transportation technology to all those living in the UAE,” said HyperloopTT chairman Bibop Gresta
“Today’s announcement is a testament to the continued commitment and determination of all our partners, both within the UAE and abroad. As we move forward with the system we invite other interested organisations in the region and around the world to join us in making history.”
Dar Al-Handasah’s team includes Dar Group members: Perkins+Will (architects, USA), T.Y. Lin International (engineers, USA), GPO Group (engineers, Spain) and Currie & Brown (cost management consultants, UK). More
By Neil Halligan arabianbubiness.com
