Is an Hyperloop System A Megaproject? An Italian Case Study Between the Cities of Milan and Rome

This paper analyzes the potential of implementing an Hyperloop transportation system between Milan and Rome in Italy, exploring its feasibility as a megaproject. The two cities, about 530 km apart, are home to some of the country’s largest institutions and multinational companies, making them important generators and attractors of mobility demand . The Hyperloop system, introduced by Elon Musk in 2013, utilizes magnetic levitation and a vacuum tube to transport passengers and goods at speeds exceeding 1000 km/h. Given the scale and complexity of such a project, it can be classified as a megaproject, which involves significant capital investment, multiple stakeholders, and substantial socio-economic impacts. The study includes a cost analysis of both CAPital EXpenditure (CAPEX) estimated around € 20.5 billion and OPerational EXpenditure (OPEX) estimated around 187 million €/y (euro/year) and examines different revenue scenarios. The first scenario (Maximum revenue scenario) maximizes revenue for the infrastructure operator, the second (Maximum transport demand) maximizes demand and therefore the service offered, and the third (Elon Musk scenario) sets the ticket price at €20. Among the scenarios analyzed, it was found that the first profits from the Hyperloop would be generated starting from the 21st year, with a profit of €2.5 billion beginning in the 48th year, assuming maximum revenue. The results highlight that, despite the high initial costs, the system could provide long-term economic benefits, particularly through a public-private partnership model. The conclusion underscores the potential of the Hyperloop to revolutionize mobility between Milan and Rome, making it a competitive alternative to current transportation options. Future research could further explore cost optimization and sustainability improvements.