> a hyperloop to be created with no tube, only a track
Don't we call that a “train?”
The original design did not have a 'track' along the full route. Cars would more or less hop between different sections. On Mars that represents clear reliability issues, but the ability to avoid building load barring bridges over gorges could be a major cost savings.
Sure, but I think it's fair to call a train that is powered with electromagnetic pulses from stationary coils something different than a train that is powered by an onboard engine.
You just described a Maglev
Yes, although I think maglev trains use continuous linear motors while if I understood the original proposal correctly, the hyperloop would be more like a series of railguns evenly spaced along the route.
Re:Is Hyperloop the future of travel?
by dangerlibrary on Tuesday May 17, 2016 @10:58AM
(#11714182)
yep
Mars
According to Musk, Hyperloop would be useful on Mars as no tubes would be needed. This is because Mars' atmosphere is about 1% the density of the Earth's.[10][45][46] For the hyperloop concept to work on Earth, low-pressure tubes are required to reduce air resistance. However, if they were to be built on Mars, the lower air resistance would allow a hyperloop to be created with no tube, only a track.[47] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyperloop
The important point is 0.01 ATM is a long way from high vacuum. Pumps can get down to that pressure very easily and individual Pumps can cover wide sections of track.