According to reports from the 17th China International Modern Railway Technology and Equipment Exhibition， Shao Nan， a senior engineer at CRRC Changke， stated in a media interview that China’s 600 km/h superconducting electric high-speed maglev train project is progressing smoothly. The first phase’s engineering prototype was successfully developed in July 2024.
CRRC Changke unveiled the 600 km/h superconducting electric high-speed maglev train at the exhibition for the first time. From the prototype on display， the train boasts an extremely futuristic appearance. The car body shell is constructed from high-strength aluminum alloy and carbon fiber composite materials. The front of the train features a streamlined design to minimize air resistance. Due to its maglev propulsion system， the wheels are enclosed within the car body.
The superconducting electric high-speed maglev train primarily utilizes electromagnetic induction between onboard superconducting magnets and track coils to achieve levitation， with a maximum designed speed of 600 km/h. This technology is characterized by a large levitation and guidance gap， offering substantial room for speed increases， along with high efficiency， safety， energy conservation， environmental friendliness， intelligence， and comfort. It is poised to effectively bridge the speed gap between high-speed rail and air travel， thereby enhancing travel efficiency and improving the passenger experience.
At the core of the superconducting electric high-speed maglev train are the onboard high-temperature superconducting magnets. These superconducting poles generate a powerful magnetic field exceeding 5T， providing reliable traction for the train. The entire train is equipped with cryostats and cryogenic refrigerator units to ensure the stable operation of the superconducting system under extreme conditions. This technological advancement represents a significant step in China’s pursuit of cutting-edge transportation solutions.
Shao Nan explained that the superconducting electric high-speed maglev train is positioned as a point-to-point transportation mode for inter-provincial travel between major cities. It will complement existing networks by offering direct transport services. “It is expected to fill the speed gap between high-speed rail and aviation within a 2000-kilometer range， making it a mode of transport that will significantly impact passenger travel. Our goal is for it to possess the timeliness and safety of rail transport while delivering a travel experience approaching that of air travel within this distance，” he stated. This development underscores a strategic vision to provide a more integrated and efficient national transportation system.
