The 12th World High-Speed Rail Conference is currently underway in Beijing. A significant highlight of the event is the inaugural public debut of China’s superconducting electric high-speed maglev train， capable of reaching speeds of 600 kilometers per hour.
According to a senior engineer from CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles Co.， Ltd.， the superconducting electric high-speed maglev train operates through the interaction between onboard superconducting electromagnets and coils embedded within the track. This sophisticated system enables contactless operation between the train and the guideway， a hallmark of maglev technology.
During low-speed operations， the train utilizes rubber wheels for locomotion. However， upon reaching a speed of 150 kilometers per hour， these wheels retract， allowing the train to levitate and achieve its high-speed magnetic levitation. This adaptive design is crucial for its versatility， enabling it to operate effectively across various terrains， including tunnels and bridges， without the limitations imposed by traditional wheel-rail contact.
Compared to conventional rail vehicles， maglev trains offer a multitude of advantages. These include superior climbing capabilities， a smaller minimum turning radius， higher operational speeds， significantly reduced running noise， enhanced safety features， absence of mechanical wear due to lack of physical contact， and lower maintenance costs. These benefits collectively contribute to a more efficient and sustainable transportation system.
The interior design of the train also showcases innovative features， emphasizing its autonomous operation. There is no traditional driver’s cabin; instead， the front of the train is equipped with a panoramic display screen. When activated， this screen offers passengers in the front seats an immersive “first-person” view of the train’s journey as it travels.
Furthermore， the absence of wheel-on-rail friction contributes to an exceptionally low internal noise level， creating an environment comparable in quietness to luxury automobiles. This offers a markedly more serene and comfortable travel experience for passengers compared to conventional high-speed rail， enhancing overall rider satisfaction.
