China has broken a world record by testing its fastest ever maglev train, which reached a speed of 700 km/h in just two seconds. The test was carried out by scientists from the National University of Defense Technology of China. The maglev vehicle, weighing about one ton (1,000 kg), was accelerated sharply during the test on a short 400-meter track and then stopped safely. This makes it the fastest superconducting electric maglev train ever tested.
Video of the experiment shows the train passing by as a silver flash, moving so fast that it is difficult to see with the naked eye. A thin misty trail follows, giving the scene a sci-fi look.
The train is levitated above the tracks using superconducting magnets, allowing it to move forward without any contact with the rails. This reduces friction and allows for extremely high speeds.
The researchers said the acceleration is so strong that the same system could even be used to launch rockets. At that speed, maglev trains could potentially connect distant cities in minutes.
“It addresses fundamental engineering challenges including ultra-high-speed electromagnetic propulsion, electric suspension guidance, high-power transient inversion energy storage, and high-field superconducting magnets,” This was reported by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
The electromagnetic acceleration technology used in the test could also be adapted for space and aviation. Experts say it can help rockets and planes achieve faster and smoother takeoffs while reducing fuel consumption and overall costs.
Li Jie, a professor at the National University of Defense Technology, said: “The successful development of this ultra-high-speed superconducting electric maglev system will accelerate the research and development process of China’s ultra-high-speed maglev transport.”
The research team worked on the project for almost ten years. At the beginning of this year in January, a speed of 648 km/h was reached on the same track.
Almost 30 years ago, the same university developed China’s first manned single-carriage maglev train, making the country the third in the world to master the technology.
