TTCI, Swisspod to partner on development of Hyperloop testing facility

Transportation Technology Center, Inc. (TTCI), a subsidiary of the Association of American Railroads, is partnering with Swisspod, a company working to develop a Hyperloop solution, on the development and construction of a Hyperloop testing facility in Pueblo, Colo.

Hyperloop is designed to be an ultra-high-speed ground transportation system using sealed tubes to transport passengers and cargo via pods. PuebloPlex will be Swisspod’s second facility following the launch of its first test track in Europe in July 2021.

The PuebloPlex facility will see Swisspod test and validate its technology patents underpinning its propulsion system and build a full-scale capsule and operational infrastructure for cargo transportation in collaboration with TTCI.

Swisspod says the partnership advances its global expansion strategy, fueling its fast-paced growth in the U.S. market, while augmenting significant research and testing capabilities.

“We selected TTCI for its remarkable track record of leadership and success in the testing, development and deployment of emerging transportation technologies. This new partnership will be vital to our market positioning, not only as pioneers of a highly efficient propulsion system but also as one of the most affordable Hyperloop infrastructure propositions in the world,” said Swisspod Co-founder and CEO Denis Tudor.

TTCI will provide engineering insight, operational and test plan support in collaboration with Swisspod, working together to develop and deploy the pioneering technology of Hyperloop.

“Our partnership with Swisspod is the first of many opportunities to extend our legacy as leaders in transportation research. Our team’s experience in performance testing and our capability to reduce the product development cycle is unmatched in North America,” said Acting CEO of TTCI Kari Gonzales.

TTCI says the partnership is an example of its commitment to its employees and the Pueblo community. Earlier this year, TTCI announced a new partnership with the Pueblo Economic Development Corporation (PEDCO) that will enhance its role as a leading transportation research, testing and training facility. By working with key Pueblo stakeholders, TTCI’s new first-in-class facilities will be capable of meeting the evolving needs of the transportation sector including research into Hyperloop technologies.

PuebloPlex covers an area in excess of 15,800 acres with building, warehouses and other facilities. Swisspod says PuebloPlex provides the perfect combination of security and space to support its testing goals.

“This is a very exciting moment for PuebloPlex and our community. Being able to leverage our vast and unique resources to the advantage of TTCI and their partnership with Swisspod is a significant step forward in the implementation of the PuebloPlex redevelopment plan. Pueblo has long been home to transportation research. The addition of the Swisspod Hyperloop testing facility truly marks the beginning of a new frontier,” said PuebloPlex President and CEO Russell DeSalvo.

The development of this new testing facility and subsequent research is also a major step toward Southern Colorado’s vision of becoming a leader in developing and deploying life-changing transportation technology, built upon Pueblo’s strong history of supporting innovative companies.

“Pueblo and Southern Colorado have long been home to the foremost rail research in the nation. The partnership with Swisspod extends that legacy and solidifies our place as transportation innovators. Maintaining our thriving, future-forward research base is a top priority that pays countless dividends across our community,” said PEDCO CEO Jeff Shaw.