DUBAI, Oct 24 — A US company plans to start building an ultra-fast hyperloop track for Abu Dhabi’s transport system in the third quarter of 2019, it said today.

Hyperloops use magnets to levitate pods inside an airless tube, creating conditions in which the pods can shuttle people and freight at speeds of up to 750 miles (1,200 km) per hour.

The technology, which has not been used commercially, is proposed as a replacement to existing rail infrastructure.

Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HyperloopTT) said in a statement that design and engineering firm Dar Al-Handasah had invested in the US-based business and would be the lead designer on the Abu Dhabi project.

It did not disclose the size of investment.

HyperloopTT signed a contract with Abu Dhabi’s state-controlled Aldar Properties in April to build a 10 kilometre track near the border with Dubai.

It previously signed a contract with Abu Dhabi’s municipal affairs and transport department in 2016 for a feasibility study to connect Abu Dhabi city with Al Ain along the Oman border.

Neighbouring Dubai is backing rival Virgin Hyperloop One to build the futuristic transport system. — Reuters