The University of Edinburgh is hosting European Hyperloop Week and will see industry experts from across the world discuss both the technology and feasibility of the ultra-high-speed transport system.

The event will also see all-electric train operator Lumo attend alongside university students, guest speakers, businesses and Hyperloop enthusiasts.

Hyperloop was initially proposed by Elon Musk in 2012 and has since seen investment by Richard Branson for Virgin Trains with Hyperloop offering the potential to create a high-speed transportation system which will support both passengers and freight. The innovative system is made up of partially evacuated tubes and passenger or freight pods, which travel at extremely high speeds.

Lumo is the newest rail operator in the UK and offers a popular green option for travel with its all-electric new fleet of trains.

The company aims to continue in its reimagining the future of rail travel and fittingly, saw managing director, Martijn Gilbert, given the honour of delivering a speech focused on moving forward with innovation and sustainability in rail travel.

Martijn said: “The exceptionally creative and innovative work of those taking part in European Hyperloop week is hugely inspirational and provides a healthy challenge as to what the future of transport will look like.”

“At Lumo we’re continuing our journey to re-imagining rail and being involved in European Hyperloop Week is a great way to support the development of STEM skills, encourage innovation and technological development and fly the flag for the future of transport. We’re delighted to be involved.”

The event will see University student teams from all over the world given a chance to show off their innovative prototypes to the rail industry and also to members of the public.

The event is open to Hyperloop enthusiasts and Edinburgh locals who wish to find out more about Hyperloop and will see talks and panel discussions by students, Hyperloop companies and representatives of the rail industry.

A ‘grand finale’ will take place on Saturday the 22nd of July, which will see the prototypes tested on the university’s track at King’s Building. Sunday the 23rd of July will also see a free public day!