The railway has been undergoing significant evolutionespecially in recent decades. Trains have benefited from advances in engineering and technology, such as the introduction of electric motors and more efficient propulsion systems. Besides, The creation of high-speed railway lines has allowed trains to become increasingly fasterreducing travel times and improving the efficiency of passenger and freight transportation.
Of course Digitalization and automation have also transformed the management and operation of railway systems, increasing security, reliability and comfort for users. However, it now seems that one alternative in particular could make a difference in terms of performance: the magnetic levitation train.
This was the first test of a levitation train on a conventional track
The Italian company IronLev has carried out notable tests using conventional railway track. Your maglev train system allows movement by levitationwhich provides significant advantages compared to conventional trains.
According to initial reports, This system has been proven to work at speeds greater than 70 km/h on a runway approximately two kilometers long, without the need to modify the existing infrastructure.
There are several reasons that support the adoption of this technology. Firstly, the magnetic levitation train offers greater stability by eliminating the vibrations that are transmitted through the wheels and suspensions in conventional trains. Additionally, the significant noise reduction makes it a much more comfortable option for passengers.
Finally, Its efficiency is reinforced by the absence of emissionsas it uses magnets for movement, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Although this technology is not new, Its implementation in Europe could represent a significant change in rail transport. Currently, countries like China, South Korea and Japan already have maglev trains in operationbut IronLev has managed to adapt this technology to conventional railway infrastructurewhich could facilitate its large-scale adoption in the future.
Initial tests have been promising, and now the next step is to increase the length of the tests to confirm the economic viability of this technology. It is also expected to determine the maximum speed it can reach in the coming months.which could be decisive for its future implementation.
Ultimately it remains to be seen whether the maglev train will be standardized before other alternativessuch as vertical takeoff and landing aerial vehicles (eVTOL).