IIT Madras Launches Asia’s First Global Hyperloop Competition 2025

IIT Madras is organizing the Global Hyperloop Competition (GHC) 2025, bringing together ten Hyperloop teams comprising 200 students from both new and experienced groups. The event will also host 150 industry delegates from across the world, representing the mobility, research, and hyperloop sectors.

As Asia’s first international Hyperloop competition, GHC 2025 will take place from February 21st to 25th at ‘Discovery,’ IIT Madras’ Satellite Campus in Thaiyur. The competition aims to position India at the forefront of hyperloop innovation, uniting global talent, industry leaders, and researchers to drive collaboration and real-world advancements in transportation technology.

Hyperloop, recognized as the fifth mode of transportation, operates through a high-speed train in a near-vacuum tube, reducing air resistance and allowing capsules to travel at speeds exceeding 1000 km/h. The concept was first introduced in 2013 by Elon Musk through his whitepaper Hyperloop Alpha.

Speaking at the event’s inauguration, Chief Guest Pankaj Sharma, Principal Executive Director of the Railway Board, emphasized India’s growing leadership in transportation technology. The competition is being conducted by IIT Madras, IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, and SAE India, with support from the Ministry of Railways.

IIT Madras Director, Prof. V. Kamakoti, highlighted the possibility of hyperloop connectivity across India in the near future. The event’s primary objective is to promote hyperloop technology and inspire young minds. The competition will be held at IIT Madras’ advanced hyperloop test facility, built with support from Indian Railways, ArcelorMittal, L&T, and HindalCo.

The competition will feature three key categories:

• Pod Demonstration: Showcasing functional hyperloop pod prototypes.
• Hyperloop InnoQuest: A case study challenge on hyperloop technology.
• DesignX: A platform for presenting innovative hyperloop designs.

Key industry players supporting GHC 2025 include Indian Railways, Ansys, and SAE India. Additionally, Autodesk will conduct a hands-on workshop for participants.

To promote STEM education, GHC has launched GHC JI ज्ञा SA, a social campaign designed to simplify hyperloop concepts and engage students through interactive workshops and educational outreach.