China's First High-temperature Superconducting High-speed Maglev Test Line Has Completed Its First Full-system Test.

On July 30, 2025, it was learned from the Institute of Electrical Engineering of the Chinese Academy of Sciences that China's first high-temperature superconducting high-speed maglev test line was completed with the first full-system integration test in Chengdu, Sichuan Province. The test train achieved stable contactless suspension, autonomous guidance, and operation at a speed of 60 kilometers per hour, marking a crucial step for China in the field of high-temperature superconducting maglev transportation technology.
The entire length of this test line is 1.5 kilometers. It adopts a fully independently developed high-temperature superconducting maglev train, permanent magnet tracks, traction power supply and control systems. According to the project leader, the high-temperature superconducting maglev technology uses liquid nitrogen (-196℃) to cool superconducting materials to achieve zero-resistance characteristics. The suspension gap between the train and the track is up to 10-20 millimeters, featuring low energy consumption, low noise, and small turning radius. The theoretical speed can reach over 600 kilometers per hour, suitable for urban rapid lines, intercity railways, and other scenarios.
During the experiment, the research team conducted tests on 12 key indicators such as the stability of train suspension, dynamic performance, and guidance accuracy. The data showed that all parameters met the design standards. This technological breakthrough has overcome the cost bottleneck of traditional maglev transportation, with the construction cost of the track being approximately 30% lower than that of conventional maglev, laying a foundation for future commercial applications.
The experts from Southwest Jiaotong University who participated in the project stated that the high-temperature superconducting high-speed maglev technology can fill the speed gap between high-speed rail and aviation. Currently, the team has initiated the planning for a 400-kilometer-per-hour test line, and it is expected to enter the engineering verification stage in 2027.
This experiment has been successfully included in the "Major Scientific and Technological Achievements of China in 2025". The related technologies have applied for 86 invention patents, among which 42 have obtained international patent authorization.