European Hyperloop Center marks its kick-off in Veendam
Veendam, Groningen - At the European Hyperloop Center (EHC) Kick-off Event, the EHC, hyperloop technology developers, together with partners, stakeholders, and hyperloop enthusiasts, celebrated the ceremonial placement of one of the first hyperloop pipes at the EHC. This monumental occasion was graced by the Commissioner of the King from the province of Groningen, René Paas.
The EHC, once complete, will host a 420-meter length hyperloop test facility, with a full hyperloop lane-switch.
Sascha Lamme, Director of the European Hyperloop Center, shared his perspective: “This center is more than just infrastructure; it's a hub of innovation and collaboration. We're providing a stage for brilliant minds to bring the hyperloop dream into reality, and we're ecstatic to see what the future holds.”
Notably, the EHC will serve as an open test facility, inviting hyperloop companies from all over the world to come testing. Hardt Hyperloop has announced that they will provide a state-of-the-art technology test & demonstration vehicle. With infrastructure placement set to conclude by year-end, eager eyes are set on the slew of tests lined up for next year.
During the event, two significant announcements further underscored the Center’s pivotal role in hyperloop development worldwide. The Hyperloop Conference, a global gathering previously held in cities like Busan, South Korea, and Gdansk, Poland, will be hosted at the European Hyperloop Center in 2024, coinciding with its official opening. Moreover, the European Hyperloop Week, a dynamic student competition where participants design and compete with their hyperloop vehicles, is set to be held at the Center in 2025.
Highlighting the significance of the project, Hans Popken, Project Manager for hyperloop from the Province of Groningen, remarked, “The Province of Groningen is proud to have won the location for the European Hyperloop Center. With the EHC being built right here in Veendam, we're not just building a facility, but strengthening our commitment to sustainable, cutting-edge transportation. It is great to see it coming alive now”
The EHC is the main project of the Hyperloop Development Program, a public-private partnership consisting of more than 20 private partners, with financial backing from the European Commission, Dutch Government, and the Province of Groningen among others.