French start-up Spacetrain is developing technology for supersonic automated hovertrains which the company hopes will cut travel time, costs as well as emissions after its launch in 2025.
2. Spacetrain
Spacetrain – launched by Emeuric Gleizes in 2017 – is
developing a high-speed shuttle inspired by the Aerotrain,
which is a hovertrain concept.
The first prototype is currently being tested and the company
aims to have a fully-working prototype ready by 2020 and a
real train running by 2025.
The Spacetrain could connect Paris to Orléans in 13 minutes
and will operate at an average speed of 540km/h, reaching a
maximum of 720 km/h.
3. How the Futuristic Technology is More
Sustainable?
Spacetrain is an autonomous shuttle, which uses air cushions
and is powered by hydrogen fuel cells.
Hydrogen fuel cells use the electrochemical combustion of the
gaseous dihydrogen + gaseous oxygen by simultaneously
producing electricity, water and heat. With this, the shuttle can
circulate 600km in autonomy.
It impossible for the train to derail because of the special
shape of the railway. In case of emergency, braking provided
by carbon brakes which enclose the vertical part of the rail.
4.
5. How does the Technology Tackle
the Issue of Reducing Emissions?
Spacetrain is a zero-emission solution. The hydrogen fuel
cells are unlike hydrocarbons. The combustion of hydrogen is
not accompanied by the release of carbon dioxide, which is
why it gives the battery the label of a clean generator.
According to the research, if every trip between Orléans and
Paris – which is about 130 km – was replaced by Spacetrain
shuttle trips, it could save 32,500t of CO2 emissions per year.
6. What's More?
Spacetrain’s main advantage is its very low costs.
In terms of construction, one kilometre of Spacetrain
technology would be around €8m-€10m.
Many countries want to develop their territory with a high-
speed transport solution like that of Spacetrain.
