The VECTORR Prototype

On a secluded vineyard in Mendocino County, we've built a 2,095 foot, 1/6 scale prototype demonstrating 2%, 6%, and 10% grades and a 180° curve. The pilot model operates at speeds up to 30 mph which equates to a full-scale speed of 180 mph. We hope you enjoy these videos. All videos are shown at normal speed without any artificial special effects.

Take a ride on VECTORR

Here's a first person view of what it's like to ride the high-speed train prototype back to the barn after a long day of testing.

Ability to climb inclines up to 10%

Conventional (slow speed) trains are limited to a 3% grade because their wheels start to slip at steeper slopes, especially in icy conditions.  VECTORR does not rely on its wheels for traction or braking, and can climb slopes of 10%.  This enables the VECTORR to follow a route along highway rights of way, reducing costs dramatically. And VECTORR can do this at high speeds. Since VECTORR is locked onto the rails, it can also safely operate in higher wind conditions.

Atmospheric braking

VECTORR has conventional brakes.  But it also relies on atmospheric pressure differentials in the power tube to slow the train down, even to a complete stop.  This redundancy makes the system very safe and maximizes power efficiency.

"Push/Pull" propulsion

While applying air pressure behind the thrust valve and vacuum in front, the train is propelled using "push/pull" force.

Rapid stop and reverse direction

The train is able to make rapid changes in direction.  No car reconfigurations or switching is required.

Tight turning radius

Our prototype curve was designed to demonstrate VECTORR's ability to traverse a 22-degree curve using a banked guideway at slow speeds. Our track makes a complete curve through 180 degrees.