Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ page). Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to this our website may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please E-mail us at European Maglev e-mail.

What is meant by a Maglev train ?

The current most modern type of Maglev train uses Magnetic Levitation to lift itself above the track. To create a stable magnetic field the principal of attracting magnets is used. The vehicle is pulled up against the gravity by magnetic forces towards the track. This is done by magnets under the track that are attached to the vehicle. Computers guard thousands times a second the appropriate distance between magnet and track. With most type of Maglev systems this gap is only a centimeter or slightly more: half an inch.

How big is the Carbon Footprint of a Maglev train ?

The energy consumption of a Maglev system is far less than of other modalities, be it flying or wheel to steel or rubber to concrete roads.  So, for instance, when compared to an airplane flying on short distance (500 - 750 km) this is 10 times less, and when compared to cars 5 times less, to trains 2 to 3 times less. This calculation is based on greenhouse gas emission per passenger kilometer.
Since the energy budget is far smaller there is no need for nuclear power plants to keep away the greenhouse gas problems. Eurostar has a very large Nuclear footprint! The maximum speed of High Speed trains (be it Maglev or the current type) should be kept under 300 km/hour to reduce energy consumption. For the type of Maglev that can serve as both Metroliner/Fast train green energy can provide for all the energy needed, rendering a complete carbon neutral way of transportation, so NO Carbon Footprint !

- Many more answers will be provided soon on this page -

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