China has once again pushed the boundaries of transportation by unveiling a maglev (magnetic levitation) train that can reach speeds of up to 600 km/h (373 mph)—making it the fastest train in the world and even faster than some commercial airplanes during takeoff and landing. Developed by CRRC Qingdao Sifang, this engineering marvel was officially launched in July 2021, showcasing China’s dominance in next-generation rail technology.
Unlike conventional trains, maglev trains float above the tracks using electromagnetic force, drastically reducing friction and enabling ultra-high speeds with minimal noise and wear. A journey between major cities like Shanghai and Beijing, which currently takes 4.5 hours by high-speed rail, could be reduced to just 2.5 hours using this new maglev system.
This breakthrough aligns with China’s ambitious plans to build a more efficient, low-emission transport network. It’s not just about speed—it’s a leap toward the future of sustainable high-speed mobility and a clear signal of China’s technological momentum on the global stage.
Author: Saikat Bhattacharya