Japan's maglev train runs test at over 310 mph

(Phys.org) —Moving toward its goal of
building a high-speed magnetic levitation
(maglev) train line between Tokyo and Osaka,
Central Japan Railway Co has resumed testing
of its L0 (L Zero) train—demonstrating speeds
just above 310 miles per hour (500 km per
hour). That makes it the longest and fastest
maglev train in the world.
Maglev trains are able to travel very fast all
while using less energy than conventional
trains because they allow the train to ride on
a cushion of air—friction from the wheels on
the track is eliminated. Most in the field
expect they will require less maintenance
costs as well. But what's still not clear is if
the lower operating costs will make up for the
dramatically greater installation cost. The line
between Tokyo and Osaka is expected to cost
approximately $90 billion and it won't be
completed until 2045 (an initial line is
expected to begin operating between Tokyo
and Nagoya in 2027 reducing travel time from
95 to 40 minutes).
In the test, a five car train carrying reporters
made its way around a 26.6-mile track in
approximately nine minutes. Riders were able
to track their speed via overhead video
screens. Those onboard reported a smooth,
reasonably quiet ride. Those witnessing the
test standing near the track, on the other
hand, reported feeling a shockwave and a
deafening noise as the train passed. It's that
second group that has the train developers
worried—before track can be laid, the train
must pass environmental impact studies.
The train does have wheels—it rides on them
when the train is at low speed—then rises up
above the track when it reaches
approximately 93 mph. On the test run, the
train reached its peak speed just three miles
into the trip, which would suggest riders
would feel pushed back into their seats, but
those on board reported no such sensation.
The test run also marked the resumption of
testing after the track was made longer. Also,
by bringing reporters aboard for the initial
trial, the train's developers expressed their
confidence in the train's performance, it's
suitability as a mode of mass transportation
and it's safety. Passengers were allowed to
move about the rail cars during all parts of
the trip. And though much of the trip
occurred underground, they also reported
that looking out the window when
aboveground offered little more than blurs
for landscapes near the train, but beautiful
imagery of more distant objects as the train
sped along.