China’s Maglev Train Hits 700 Kmph In Just 2 Seconds: China, which leads the world in fastest trains, again proved that it is the boss when it comes to high-speed transportation. The neighbouring country has achieved a major milestone by making a new world record in superconducting magnetic levitation (maglev) technology. Researchers working with China’s National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) ran a 1.1-ton experimental maglev vehicle to 700 kmph in just 2 seconds. This was the fastest top speed ever recorded for a superconducting maglev system. The NUDT researchers conducted tests and accelerated the experimental maglev vehicle on a 400-meter track. They not only succeeded in accelerating the vehicle but also in precise and safe braking. The experimental vehicle was smoothly stopped after reaching the maximum speed.

Maglev Trial Broke All Records

The video of the test was published by China’s state broadcaster CCTV. In the clip, the experimental vehicle can be seen appearing as a streamlined chassis, accelerating on the track at top speed, leaving smoke in its wake.

The NUDT researchers confirmed that the trial in which the vehicle touched 700 kmph broke all the records in both acceleration and speed for maglev platforms.

It is to be noted that the successful test reflects progress in several critical engineering areas such as – ultra-high-speed electromagnetic propulsion, stable electric suspension/guidance systems, high-power energy storage solutions and utilisation of high-field superconducting magnets.

The above-mentioned technologies were strategically used to levitate the test vehicle centimeters above the track, enabling extreme speeds with reduced vibration. This process also eliminates wheel-rail friction.

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#China sets a world record with superconducting maglev train hitting 700 km/h in just 2 seconds！#technology #railway #train pic.twitter.com/kMVSAAwD36

— Shanghai Daily (@shanghaidaily) December 25, 2025

What Did The NUDT Scientists Say About The Breakthrough?

According to Professor Li Jie of NUDT, the successful test is a significant step forward for China’s ultra-high-speed ground transportation dreams. He said that superconducting maglev systems are not limited to passenger trains and have a broader reach. These systems could play a crucial role in supporting next-generation transport concepts and aerospace applications.

• Are Maglev Trains Different From Conventional Trains?
• Yes, Maglev trains are different from conventional rail systems.
• Maglev trains don’t have wheels and use magnetic forces to achieve movement.
• Maglev trains and their tracks are installed with powerful electromagnets.
• The magnetic poles repel each other and levitate the train.
• Maglev trains float a few centimeters above the track.
• These trains have low maintenance requirements.
• Electric propulsion boosts overall energy efficiency and supports cleaner operation

Experts suggest that these trains have broader impacts. The technology behind superconducting maglev could support hyperloop-like systems running in low-pressure or vacuum environments. Here, speeds of 1,000 km/h could be achieved.

The same technology can be used in rockets and aircraft to provide them the needed initial acceleration, potentially saving fuel.

Maglev Vehicle Test Details

• Top speed: 700 km/h
• Acceleration time: 2 seconds
• Test Vehicle weight: 1.1 tons
• Test track length: 400 meters
• Previous record that has been broken: 648 km/h (July 2025)
• Commercial maglev train speed which runs in Shanghai: 430 km/h