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The idea of a transatlantic tunnel is as fascinating as it is challenging. Elon Musk has brought a new angle to the discussion, betting on innovation to reduce costs and deadlines. However, turning this idea into reality will require not only advanced technology, but also a good dose of determination (and financial resources).
Imagine traveling from New York to London in just 54 minutes. Sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, right? Well, this idea is closer to reality than you might think. A revolutionary project involves building an underwater tunnel over 5 kilometers long, connecting the two cities. However, with an estimated price tag of almost 20 trillion dollars, Elon Musk decided to put his creativity (and boldness) on the table. Does he have the solution?
The dream of a transatlantic tunnel
The concept of a tunnel connecting New York to London is not new, but continues to fascinate the public. The project, which would reduce travel time from eight hours by plane to less than an hour, would be a landmark in the history of engineering and global transportation. Imagine boarding a plane in New York in the morning and already being in London for lunch!
But, like everything that seems incredible, there is a catch. In addition to the astronomical cost, the technological difficulties involved make this idea seem more like a distant dream than a near reality.
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The challenge of building the world's longest tunnel
Why is such a tunnel so expensive? For starters, we’re talking about a gigantic underwater structure that would span the Atlantic Ocean. The extreme depths and pressure of the ocean pose challenges that modern engineering has yet to fully overcome. The estimated price tag of around $19,8 trillion is enough to rebuild several entire cities. Plus, the construction timeline is expected to last several decades, and the question is: is it really worth it?
Elon Musk joins the conversation
Elon Musk, never shy when it comes to big ideas, decided to propose an alternative to the megaproject. In a simple tweet, he stated that his company, The Boring Company, could reduce the cost by “a thousand times”. In other words, the tunnel could be built for “just” billions, instead of trillions. It sounds promising, but can he deliver on something so ambitious?
The Boring Company has a history of innovations, like the LVCC Loop in Las Vegas, which turned a 45-minute commute into a 2-minute drive. But we’re talking 5.471 miles, not just 2,7 miles.
The Boring Company's Technological Revolution
If anyone can challenge the impossible, it’s Elon Musk. The Boring Company has revolutionized tunneling by prioritizing low costs, speed, and efficiency. One of the most famous examples is the LVCC Loop, built in just one year for $47 million. While impressive, tunneling in the Las Vegas desert is a far cry from drilling into the ocean floor.
But Musk believes the company’s technological innovations, such as its cutting-edge drilling machines, could make the transatlantic tunnel a reality. The stakes, however, are much more than technology: it’s about redefining human mobility.
Is it feasible or just an ambitious idea?
The project, whether in the trillion-dollar version or in the economic solution Musk’s technology still faces formidable obstacles. Issues such as safety, maintenance and environmental impact cannot be ignored. However, the potential to transform global transportation is undeniable.
Regardless, the debate continues: are we ready for a project of this magnitude? Elon Musk seems to think so, and his bold vision could inspire new ways of thinking about the future of mobility.
Just to keep the news going, nothing beats the pressure of the oceans, yet.
Rocket didn’t fly backwards…
So you don't know about the Euro Tunnel?
No
True, the pressure of the oceans is gigantic, it would burst your lungs in seconds!!!
He will certainly do the same floating thing, over the sea…. lol
The calculation capacity for the work budget is impressive, it is 19,8 trillion dollars, the budgeting engineer didn't even round it up
If it were in B. do **** the budget would be 100 trillion and the work would never be finished and it would be the fault of the biroliro.
It seems like you're the one who likes it. Do you see your president's BIG ass come in?
He spoke of the prisoner's lunchbox indoctrinated at school, at the left-handed university, seeing the great PICAnha enter the ass of his own family and himself, reflecting in his own impoverishment, loss of resources and quality of life, in addition to the increase in his exposure to violence while defending his own stu*p*r!
PT's work, right?
Like Petrobras, Correios, FUNSEF!!!
Round up 200 billion dollars?
The one who rounds up is the Brazilian engineer with an eye on the bribe. Rounding up what is already huge?
Stop this nonsense. Go study.