I hate to be a party pooper, but I see some economic issues.
My takeaway is that while the 7 billion fixed costs will be low, the operating costs are going to be huge.
Battery packs and solar cells will need replacement. Large maintenance teams will be needed with immediate response times to fix issues such as complete seal blowouts, etc.
I think the first few years will be great! But in my opinion maintaining this system over the long term will be very, very expensive compared to slower rail.
I'm still optimistic that most of these and other issues will be worked out in the long term.
EDIT: Did he post what this tube will be made out of? How will he prevent solar degradation?
The tube is steel, shouldn't be a problem. The electronics are only a small fraction of the cost. It is mostly just the cost of the tube, pylons, and land.
My takeaway is that while the 7 billion fixed costs will be low, the operating costs are going to be huge.
Battery packs and solar cells will need replacement. Large maintenance teams will be needed with immediate response times to fix issues such as complete seal blowouts, etc.
I think the first few years will be great! But in my opinion maintaining this system over the long term will be very, very expensive compared to slower rail.
I'm still optimistic that most of these and other issues will be worked out in the long term.
EDIT: Did he post what this tube will be made out of? How will he prevent solar degradation?