A Cambridge-based firm Mole solutions is trialling an idea to provide a parcel post system with a vast network of underground of pipes where parcels could be delivered directly to shops and businesses.
The pipe which is propelled by magnetic wave measures up to 2.4 metres wide could deliver loads of up to five tonnes at a time.
Funded by Transport Systems Catapult, a Government funded centre which has been established to support innovation of transport this postal system is already attracting interest from a number of prestigious companies such as DHL, Peel Holdings and Laing O’Rourke.
This system uses magnetic levitation with a small train suspended above underground tracks, a technology already used to propel the world’s fastest train the Shanghai Maglev which can reach up to 270mph.
British roads are becoming more and more congested, something which is backed up by figures announced last week by the Department of Transport which shows a record 35.6 million vehicles were registered in the UK last year. This figure which has increased by ten million over the past two decades highlights how numbers have increased which has caused road congestion and many environmental and health issues.
A small pilot scheme could be up and running in Northampton within a few years sending goods such as food, drink, computer hardware, clothes etc. across the town by pipeline instead of by road.
Yes Response welcomes all new concepts in delivery which are carbon friendly, reduces congestion, improves delivery timescales and are ultimately more cost effective.
