Currently in the testing phase, the Maglev train is a magnet propelled and levitated train that can at travel mind blowing fast speeds.

On December 2, 2003, the super fast train attained a record breaking maximum speed of 581 km/h in a manned vehicle run. That’s about the same speed as a commercial airliner.

The Maglev uses innovative magnetic propulsion system that both levitates the train inches off the ground as well as moving it forward. The following is a direct quote from the Maglev’s official website:

Principle of propulsion

A repulsive force and an attractive force induced between the magnets are used to propel the vehicle (superconducting magnet). The propulsion coils located on the sidewalls on both sides of the guideway are energized by a three-phase alternating current from a substation, creating a shifting magnetic field on the guideway. The on-board superconducting magnets are attracted and pushed by the shifting field, propelling the Maglev vehicle.

The main obstacle in making the Maglev a reality is the cost. It is estimated that it would cost $100 billion, to build a 500 Km track. Japanese engineers are researching new techniques and materials in order to reduce these costs without sacrificing safety. If they are successful, trains like the Maglev may become the mode of transportation of the future.

Below is a video of the record breaking speed test in Japan.

Find out more here -> www.rtri.or.jp/rd/maglev/html/english/maglev_frame_E.html