The Loop, also known as “Teslas in Tunnels” is the underground transportation system developed by The Boring Company.
The Loop is a revolutionary all-electric, zero-emissions, high-speed underground public transportation system. It is designed to transport passengers directly to their destination with no intermediate stops.
It is a fast, efficient, safe and sustainable way that promises to revolutionise urban transportation. This will be done by reducing traffic congestion on roads and highways in urban areas.
Indeed, unlike traditional subway systems, Loop is an express public transportation system that resembles an underground highway.
Distinction from subway
Loop passengers can travel directly to their destination without stopping at intermediate stations, making their trip faster and more convenient. The express system of Loop enables its vehicles to reach a top speed of 150 mph. And that is considerably faster than the standard subway cars that can only go up to 65 mph.
Distinction from Hyperloop
The Hyperloop is a proposed high-speed transportation system that would move passengers or freight in pods through a low-pressure tube at high speeds of up to 760 miles per hour (1,223 kilometers per hour). The concept was first proposed by entrepreneur Elon Musk in 2013. After that, it has since been developed and studied by various companies and organisations. The Hyperloop system is designed to be energy-efficient, safe, and cost-effective. Then, it could potentially revolutionise the way people travel and transport goods in the future.
On the other hand, the Tesla Loop is an underground transportation system using electric vehicles on conventional roads. It focuses on providing efficient, localised transportation within a specific area like a city or a facility. This is done with autonomous electric cars traveling through underground tunnels.
Tesla Loop characteristics
Capacity
The capacity of the Loop is determined by the quantity of tunnels, stations, size of stations, and the number of operating vehicles. The Las Vegas Convection Centre (LVCC) Loop system is designed to transport 4,400 passengers per hour and it specifically serves the transportation needs within the convention center complex. While the Vegas Loop, a broader underground tunnel system connecting multiple destinations in Las Vegas, is targeting 57,000 passengers per hour.
Uncongested entry and exit
One of the biggest advantages of Loop over traditional subways is the ability to build stations of any size, including small stations as small as two parking spaces. This high density of stations distributes Loop vehicles and foot traffic across many access points, providing more convenient entry and exit locations and reducing congestion in populated areas.
Safety
Safety is also a top priority for Loop. Indeed, Tesla Model S, 3, X, and Y have achieved NHTSA’s top rating of 5 stars and have the lowest probability of injury among all vehicles tested. Additionally, Loop’s vehicles are designed without any internal touch hazards, ensuring safe evacuation and minimising potential fire risks.
In the event of a fire, the tunnel features a redundant, bidirectional ventilation system that effectively removes smoke, allowing passengers to safely exit.
Moreover, the tunnel is equipped with emergency exits, fire detection systems, fire suppression systems, and a fire-rated first responder emergency communication system.
Loop regularly conducts tests of its systems with the assistance of local Police and Fire Departments to ensure their effectiveness and reliability.
It also provides direct communication between its vehicles and passengers with the Operational Control Center, which is staffed around the clock. This communication is facilitated through Blue Light Stations, LTE cell service, and WiFi.
The Loop tunnels are fully illuminated, and in the unlikely event of an incident, the tunnels have 100% camera coverage, leaving no blind spots.
Loop security
Loop security has been recognised by the United States Department of Homeland Security Transportation Security Administration. Indeed, it awarded The Boring Company’s LVCC Loop the Gold Standard Award, the highest rating possible in a review that evaluates 17 categories of security and emergency preparedness.
Earthquakes
When designed properly, tunnels are some of the safest places to be during an earthquake. Loop tunnels are designed to move uniformly with the ground, reducing the risk of damage caused by falling debris.
Covid-19 safety and Sustainability
Finally, Loop vehicles carry small numbers of passengers, reducing the risk of exposure to airborne diseases presented by crowds.
It is also an environmentally-friendly transportation solution. The AEVs are electric, which means that they produce zero emissions, reducing the carbon footprint of urban transportation. The underground tunnels also reduce noise pollution, making the system ideal for use in densely populated areas.
Conclusion
Therefore, Loop is a game-changer for public transportation, providing fast, efficient, and safe travel in congested cities. Its unique design and safety features make it a viable alternative to traditional subways. Further, its capacity can be scaled to meet the needs of any city. With its focus on safety, security, and convenience, Loop is the future of public transportation.
