China has begun work on a ‘floating train’ that would be considerably faster than a commercial passenger aircraft, as per reports from The Sun.
The Chinese railway will leverage the use of magnetic levitation technology, popularly known as the “maglev,” to operate the train and transport passengers at speeds that have not been achieved till now. “The aim is to quicken the development of trains that are faster, smarter, more environmentally friendly, and more energy-efficient,” China Railway said, as per The Sun.
A new maglev train project promises to redefine long-distance travel with speeds reaching 621 mph (1,000 km/h), over 400 mph faster than China’s current high-speed trains, which run at 217 mph. This ambitious venture utilizes superconducting magnets that interact with the metallic surface of a specially designed tube to create a magnetic levitation effect, allowing the train to hover and move forward without touching the track. This innovation significantly reduces friction and increases travel efficiency.
How the Maglev System Works
The train operates by using superconducting magnets that produce a magnetic field interacting with the metal lining the inside of the tube, which “levitates” the train. This unique setup creates a cushion of air that propels the train forward smoothly and swiftly. The maglev train’s journey will be significantly faster than commercial aircraft, whose average cruising speeds typically range from 547 to 575 mph.
Enhancing Connectivity and Comfort
To ensure seamless internet access for passengers, the train will feature two parallel cables running along the inner wall of the tube. These cables will emit electromagnetic signals to counteract any signal disruptions caused by the train’s rapid speed and corresponding frequency shifts.
The Maglev Train’s First Operation and Future Implications
The new high-speed train will connect to the existing 11.5-mile Maglev Express Line S2, branching off from the Changsha Nan station, located just west of Changsha Airport in Hunan Province. It is worth noting that China already has a maglev system in operation that links Shanghai’s airport to the city center in just seven minutes, showcasing the technology’s potential for rapid transit.
ALSO READ: Trump Taps Ex-PayPal COO David Sacks As White House AI And Crypto Czar
