How Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) Trains Reach Such High Speeds

A fascinating TED-Ed lesson by Dr. Ning Zhao, directed by Vicente Numpaque of Dr3i Studio and Hernando Bahamon of Globizco Studios, explained how Maglev (magnetic levitation) trains work, the two major approaches to magnetic levitation, and how they reach such high speeds.

There are two major approaches here. In electromagnetic suspension, magnetized arms wrap under the track and pull the train up. Meanwhile, in electrodynamic suspension, coils embedded in the track create a pattern of alternating magnetic fields that interact with magnets on the train to float the vehicle a few cm in the air … Given enough runway, these trains can reach speeds from 430 to a theoretical 600 km per hour.

The lesson also addresses the difficulty of bringing maglev trains to the United States.

To go fast, trains need long, straight tracks with wide curves, which are very difficult to build in mountains, cities, or densely populated areas. Building such routes is costly, politically sensitive, and often physically impossible.

Despite these challenges, Japan and China have already developed maglev systems.

Despite these hurdles, Japan and China are expanding their existing high-speed and Maglev rails.

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