A Chinese research center in Hubei Province has set a new record in maglev technology: a train weighing more than a ton was brought up to 650 km/h in less than 7 seconds using a track section of under 600 meters.
This was made possible through precise position control of the train and the use of magnetic repulsion, allowing the train to effectively “float” above the rails and reducing friction. The train’s position is controlled with an accuracy of no more than four millimeters, enabling not only rapid acceleration but also emergency braking—its braking distance is just 200 meters.
Meanwhile, the aerospace corporation CASIC is building full-scale tracks, aiming for speeds up to 1,000 km/h. When the project is completed, the Shanghai–Hangzhou route (about 200 km) will take 9 minutes, and the Beijing–Shanghai route (1,330 km) will take just one and a half hours.
Maglev is not only about speed; it is also described as about an order of magnitude safer. There are no accidental crossings with people or other transport, and, unlike conventional rail scenarios, it would be difficult for someone to run at the train—by the time a step is taken, the train has already passed.
