The Hyperloop is a concept by billionaire designer Elon Musk, and is supposed to eclipse trains, boats, cars, and even planes. Coming up with an innovative method of transportation is not an easy task, but if anyone can do it, Musk would be the one.

Musk has a proven track record of turning science fiction into reality. He made his fortune from PayPal, electric cars, and spaceships.

Elon announced he would publish plans for the Hyperloop tomorrow, sending scientists into frenzy. He will not patent the design, making the project open source, giving anyone the opportunity to change it, or try to build it.

Theorists have been trying to predict the design, which allegedly involves a cross between a Concorde, a rail gun, and an air hockey table, which would transport passengers from Los Angeles to San Francisco in 30 minutes. That is 615km in half an hour.

The system is apparently going to be solar powered, and speculators believe the design is going to be similar to the pneumatic tubes banks and stores used to move money around.

A method of transportation like this could mean your kids could study in Otago, and never have to move away from home in Auckland!