TOI file image for representation

BENGALURU: Hyperloop India has tied up with a city-based Workbench Projects to build the prototype pod that will feature in the global design competition for the super fast transportation system using magnetic levitation technology.

"Hyperloop India team has partnered with us to build the prototype pod in Bengaluru by the end of July. The building work will start from May 22. This will mark India's entry into the international Hyperloop race," Workbench Projects founder and CEO Pavan Kumar said today.

Hyperloop India comprises more than 80 students from BITS Pilani, Indian School of Business and IIM-Ahmedabad, and their scaled down pod prototype 'OrcaPod' has been selected for the final stage of SpaceX's Hyperloop Pod Design competition, he told PTI.

OrcaPod, being developed by Hyperloop India -- one of the five teams shortlisted for Hyperloop One Global Challenge -- can reach speeds up to 460 kmph.

Hyperloop envisages transporting passengers or goods inside capsules put inside vacuum created in special tunnels above the ground at speeds of over 1,000 kmph.

On the funding, Kumar said Rs 75 lakh was required to build the pod and so far he had been able to raise Rs 20 lakh through sponsorship.

"As much as Rs 75 lakh is required to build the pod, and so far, I have raised Rs 20 lakh through sponsorship. I have raised this money from corporates, and I am confident I will be able to reach the target before the work begins," he said.

Hyperloop India signed the partnership with Workbench Projects three days ago for building the 4X2 metre pod.

"My firm will assist Hyperloop India team to connect with fabricators and experts from Peenya and Electronic City for this build," he said.

The pod will be raced inside a mile-long vacuum tube built by SpaceX at Hawthorne in California, the official said.

Hyperloop Transport Technologies had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several others, including chief ministers of various states, expressing interest in starting the project in India.

