Maglev train technologies developing worlds fastest train system

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Maglev train technologies: Developing the world’s fastest train system

Maglev or “magnetic levitation” technology, capable of traveling at speeds of 600 kmph will provide a faster, safer and cost-effective alternative to conventional railways

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Quantumrun Foresight
December 10, 2021

Traffic congestion often restricts efficient travel within and between urban populations, creating an ever-increasing need for high-speed, convenient public transport. As a result, countries like Japan and China are continuously developing maglev train technologies to transform railway systems for the better.

Maglev train context

Maglev or "magnetic levitation" technology is similar to what is used in the hyperloop transport concept popularized by Elon Musk, also known as magnetic propulsion. There are electromagnets called "bogies" present on the rails and beneath the train. The train initially runs on rubber wheels, but after gaining speeds of 150 kmph, the magnetic force between the bogies becomes strong enough to lift the train approximately 4 inches (10 cm) off the rails, allowing it to levitate at high speeds.

With an average speed of around 500 kmph (200-250 mph), maglev trains are among the fastest railway systems being developed globally, significantly quicker than conventional bullet trains, which travel at about 350 kmph. Japan and China are leaders in maglev train technologies, as well as leaders in constructing such maglev networks to reduce travel time between cities.

In 2009, Japan approved the superconducting (SC) maglev train system set to be completed in 2027. During trials at the Miyazaki Test Track, the SC Maglev broke previous world records for rail vehicles, clocking speeds of more than 600 kmph. On average, these trains will run at an average speed of 500 kmph on the Chuo Shinkansen line, connecting the cities of Tokyo and Nagoya as of now and there is a planned line extension to Osaka in the future. The trip to Nagoya will take only 40 minutes, faster than flying or travelling by road.

Similarly, China is aggressively building out high-speed rail networks to accommodate its massive population and better connect the interior provinces with the wealthy coastal megacities. In 2021, China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation, the nation’s state-owned railway company, unveiled the world's fastest maglev bullet train in Qingdao, capable of traveling at over 600 kmph.

Disruptive impact

Maglev train technologies will improve public transportation and infrastructure around the world over the 2020s and 30s, especially in East Asian states. China plans to set up three-hour transportation cycles between major metropolitan areas, which will help businesses and industries alike. Japan's Chuo Shinkansen line will reduce travel time and benefit the lives of tourists, workers, and individuals looking for affordable and fast public transport.

Moreover, high-speed rail might increase tourism in East Asia, leading to more jobs in the tourism industry. As the technology becomes more widespread, more European countries might invest in and adopt maglev trains to replace or augment their legacy rail networks, leading to an influx of technical jobs around the world. Meanwhile, high-speed rail may further bridge the gap between train railways and air travel as some consumers may save on boarding times and high-ticket airline costs. Unfortunately, the high initial investment, lack of complete maglev train lines, and lack of expert labor may hinder the market growth of maglevs in developing countries.

Applications of maglev train technologies

The possible implications of the maglev trains may include:

Bringing more competition within the terrestrial transport sector such as between the Japanese maglevs and planned hyperloop networks, as well as with long-distance bus services.