The Whoosh transit system, set to debut in 2026, is a New Zealand innovation aiming to redefine urban transport. Unlike traditional cable cars or gondolas, Whoosh’s autonomous pods offer direct, private, and efficient travel through a modular network of cables and tracks. This system is designed to address challenges in urban mobility by combining the convenience of ridesharing with the efficiency of cable-driven transport.
How the system works
At its core, the Whoosh system utilizes motorized pods that can autonomously navigate between stations using a network of static cables and steel rails. Unlike conventional gondolas that follow fixed loops, these pods can switch tracks independently, optimizing their routes for speed and efficiency. The modular network can span across urban areas, bypassing geographical constraints such as rivers, highways, and buildings.
Whoosh pods operate on a combination of tensioned cables, stretching between 150-300 meters (500-985 feet), and shorter steel rails for smooth turns and junctions. This flexibility allows the network to extend cheaply and quickly, accommodating urban expansion without the logistical challenges of traditional road or rail construction.
Stations and accessibility
Stations in the Whoosh system are designed for minimal footprint and convenience. The smallest stations fit within a standard parking space and include a spiral ramp to reach the 12-meter (40-foot) elevated network. Larger stations can be constructed at ground level, integrating seamlessly into existing urban infrastructure. Each station operates on a separate rail loop, ensuring that stopped pods do not disrupt overall traffic flow.
Passengers can book a pod through an app, which allows them to customize their travel experience. The system recognizes individual preferences for temperature, lighting, and music, creating a personalized and comfortable journey. Once a pod is booked, it arrives at the designated station, ready to transport the passenger directly to their destination without intermediate stops.
Efficiency and sustainability
Whoosh aims to provide an energy-efficient alternative to urban commuting. The pods are equipped with underfloor batteries that power onboard features such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems. These batteries also drive the wheels that propel the pods along the network.
The rolling resistance of the small wheels is significantly lower than that of rubber tires on traditional roads. This design choice contributes to the system’s efficiency, reportedly twice as efficient as a small electric car. A typical ride in the Whoosh system consumes less energy than a 10-minute shower.
The pods maintain a constant average speed of 40 km/h (25 mph) without the frequent stop-and-go pattern of conventional traffic. This uninterrupted motion not only saves time but also reduces energy consumption. Additionally, the modular network can operate on renewable energy, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Passenger comfort and safety
Whoosh pods are designed with passenger comfort in mind. The system incorporates advanced control algorithms that allow the pods to lean into corners, similar to a motorbike. This feature reduces the lateral forces experienced during turns, making the ride smoother and more comfortable.
The cables used in the network contribute to a floating sensation, enhancing the overall travel experience. The system’s ability to seamlessly switch between cables and rails ensures a stable and quiet journey, free from the rigidity often associated with rail-based transport.
Safety is a key focus of the Whoosh system. The pods are equipped with an “eddy current braking system” that gently controls their motion during turns and stops. This braking system is designed to provide reliable performance while ensuring passenger safety.
Cost-effective infrastructure
One of the most significant advantages of the Whoosh system is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional road infrastructure can cost $10-20 million per kilometer, while light rail systems may exceed $100 million per kilometer. In comparison, the Whoosh network is projected to cost approximately $5 million per kilometer. This affordability makes it an attractive option for cities looking to expand their transit systems without significant financial burdens.
The modular design of the network allows for rapid deployment and scalability. Additional vehicles, cables, and rails can be integrated into the system as needed, enabling cities to adapt to changing demands without extensive planning or disruption.
Applications beyond passenger transport
While the primary focus of the Whoosh system is passenger transport, it is also well-suited for cargo operations. Businesses can use cargo pods to establish efficient “loading bay-to-loading bay” freight networks. These pods can seamlessly integrate with the passenger system, prioritizing passenger pods during peak times to maintain efficient service.
Pilot project in Queenstown
The first public deployment of the Whoosh system is planned for Queenstown, New Zealand, in 2026. This pilot project will be privately funded and will showcase the system’s capabilities in a real-world setting. Queenstown’s geographical constraints, including mountains and a lake, make it an ideal location to demonstrate the system’s ability to overcome terrain challenges.
The pilot network will include multiple stations, merge and diverge points, and both spiral and straight-through stations. This comprehensive setup will highlight the system’s flexibility and efficiency, setting the stage for broader adoption in urban areas worldwide.
Challenges and future outlook
While the Whoosh system offers numerous advantages, it also faces challenges common to new transit technologies. Public acceptance, regulatory compliance, and integration with existing infrastructure will be critical to its success. The team behind Whoosh is actively seeking feedback to refine the system and address potential issues before the full-scale rollout.
Looking ahead, the modular and scalable nature of the Whoosh network positions it as a promising solution for cities grappling with urban mobility challenges. Its ability to provide direct, on-demand transport without the constraints of traditional road or rail networks makes it a flexible and efficient option for the future.
Source: Whoosh
