Acceptance of hyperloop: Developing a model for hyperloop acceptance based on an empirical study in the Netherlands

Abstract

Increasing urbanization is causing many challenges for mobility today, such as traffic jams and high carbon dioxide emissions. Hyperloop is a radical mobility innovation that could offer a potential solution for these issues. Since hyperloop is currently under development, overcoming technical and economic challenges and increasing its acceptance in society will decide the success of this innovative mode of transport. Currently, research on hyperloop user acceptance is limited. This study aims to identify users’ willingness to use the system and factors that determine support or rejection for hyperloop. Therefore, an acceptance model was proposed and then tested in an empirical study based on a sample consisting of N = 387 participants in the Netherlands. The results indicate that performance expectations (e.g., high speed, comfort, environmental advantages) support the acceptance of hyperloop. At the same time, safety concerns (e.g., technology failure, low-pressure environment) were identified as a rejection factor. Based on the results, interested stakeholders should consider the benefits, possible fears, and concerns regarding hyperloop in their communication. Future research should include experience opportunities with hyperloop to obtain more valid results.