China has set a new world record with an experimental maglev train. The test vehicle accelerated from a complete stop to 800 kilometres per hour in only 5.3 seconds.
The trial took place on a one-kilometre track at the Donghu Laboratory in Hubei province. The model train, weighing about 1.1 tonnes, floats above the track using strong magnets. This removes friction and allows extremely fast movement. An electromagnetic force then pushes it forward like a powerful slingshot.
After reaching top speed, the train also showed strong braking ability. It stopped smoothly within about 200 metres. This was the third time in six months that the same experimental system broke its own acceleration record. Earlier tests had reached 650 km/h and then around 700–798 km/h.
The technology is still in the laboratory stage and is not yet ready for passengers. Scientists say the same principles could one day help launch rockets or fighter jets more efficiently.
