Team Vegapod Hyperloop

Team Vegapod Hyperloop is a passionate group of students from MIT World Peace University, dedicated to building a subscale hyperloop prototype

In the European Hyperloop Week 2023, which was held at the University of  Edinburgh, UK, we proudly secured a spot amongst the world's top six teams and showcased a fully operational hyperloop prototype. We were the sole Asian team to pass the rigorous Testing and Safety Documentation (TSD) round. 

In 2024, we had the incredible honour of representing India at the European Hyperloop Week, hosted at the ETH Zurich in Switzerland. Our fourth prototype, VAJRA, placed us among the Top 2 teams globally in categories like mechanical, electrical, and guidance subsystems. We were the only Indian team to make it through the tough jury evaluation and successfully demonstrate our prototype. Additionally, we were honoured to receive the Outreach Award 2024 for our efforts in raising awareness about hyperloop technology. 

Now as we gear up for the upcoming European Hyperloop Week 2025, which is to be hosted at the world’s first ever hyperloop testing facility, the European Hyperloop Centre, in the Netherlands, we aim to further advance our prototype by equipping it with technologies such as dynamic levitation, contactless propulsion and vacuum compatibility.

The Levitation subsystem is built on an Electromagnetic Suspension (EMS) mechanism, designed to achieve contactless vertical lift by generating a controlled magnetic field. The system includes custom-designed electromagnets, power-efficient driver circuits, and precise feedback loops that dynamically adjust lift force based on sensor inputs. This allows the pod to float above the track with minimal drag, improving efficiency and safety.

The Propulsion subsystem features a Linear Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (LPMSM) that enables contactless linear acceleration using magnetic interaction between on-board permanent magnets and track-mounted coils. This system allows for efficient high-speed motion with rapid acceleration and deceleration, while maintaining mechanical simplicity and low maintenance requirements.

The Power subsystem plays a pivotal role in energizing the pod. It consists of two key units: the Levitation Driver Units that control the EMS system, and the Inverter Units that drive the propulsion motor. These units are responsible for managing power delivery, voltage regulation, and protection mechanisms against faults like overcurrents and short circuits. With high switching frequencies and efficient heat dissipation mechanisms, this subsystem ensures consistent power supply to all critical pod components.

The Sense and Control subsystem is the brain of the pod. At its core are multiple Electronic Control Units (ECUs), which handle real-time data acquisition, processing, and decision-making across all other subsystems. These ECUs are connected to a network of sensors that provide data on speed, position, current, temperature, and system health. They are responsible for autonomous navigation, feedback control loops, subsystem synchronization, and safety protocols—all while communicating with the ground station.

To implement these advanced technologies, the team relies heavily on Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) for robust signal integrity, space optimization, and electrical reliability. These PCBs are essential for interconnecting modules, regulating voltage and current, and ensuring seamless integration between subsystems.

The team is truly grateful for the support PCBWay has extended in the past, and firmly believes that your continued encouragement would go a long way in helping us move forward. As a student-led team from India, we work within a modest budget and strive to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way. A sponsorship from PCBWay would make a meaningful difference in strengthening our technical development and preparing us to proudly represent our country on an international platform. We would be sincerely thankful for the chance to collaborate with PCBWay once again, and we genuinely value the role your support plays in shaping our journey in advancing hyperloop technology.