China’s Maglev train surpasses its own velocity benchmarks

Thursday, February 15, 2024

The China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) has recently unveiled a significant advancement in transportation technology, with its latest maglev train surpassing the previous top speed of 623 kilometers per hour (387 miles per hour) during a test.

The precise velocity achieved remains undisclosed, yet CASIC has labelled this event as a pivotal success. The testing, which took place in a 2-kilometer-long low-vacuum tube, is noted for being the first occasion the hyperloop-style train demonstrated stable levitation at such high speeds, hinting at China’s potential to unveil a train capable of competing with the velocity of airplanes, as reported by the South China Morning Post.

Employing magnetic levitation technology, the train is propelled and lifted above its track through magnetism, with its passage through a low-vacuum tube contributing to its enhanced speed. This recent experiment not only established a new speed benchmark but also confirmed the effective integration and operation of several key technologies. CASIC’s project, merging aerospace and ground rail transport techniques, aspires to reach speeds up to 1,000 kilometers per hour, potentially outpacing commercial aircraft speeds.

Mao Kai, the project’s chief designer, has commented on the challenges and complexities involved in pioneering such innovative technology, stating that every advancement requires overcoming significant hurdles. The latest tests validated the effective interaction between the vehicle, tube, and track, ensuring the maglev train’s stable levitation. Additionally, the system’s movement mechanisms and safety controls were confirmed to function according to expectations.

These technological strides have not only enhanced the project’s technical maturity but also laid the foundation for subsequent higher-speed trials and the expansion of a national transportation network. Furthermore, the China National Space Administration, via CASIC, is progressing in the development of the nation’s next-generation commercial aerospace electromagnetic launch systems.

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