China is advancing its high-speed rail technology with a magnetic levitation train, known as maglev. This train operates without wheels, instead using magnets for levitation, which allows it to achieve speeds of 650 km/h. Current maglev systems exist in South Korea and Japan, but none match the speed capabilities of China's prototype. Once at operational velocity, the train lifts off the tracks, allowing for dramatically higher speeds. Successful tests have shown it can reach 650 km/h in just 1,000 meters, with typical operational speeds of 800 km/h.
The ride begins mundanely on track-bound rubber wheels, but quickly picks up as the train hits the 100-200kmph range. Once at optimal levitating speed, the rubber wheels retract, suspending the train less than half an inch off the track.
Chinese engineers are plugging away on a maglev that they say hit spectacular speeds of 650 kmph, or 400 miles per hour, showcasing the high-speed maglev at the 12th World Congress on High Speed Rail.
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