PREVIEW

The world's first levitating train has successfully completed its inaugural test journey.

Technology firm IronLev announced the triumphant initial run as the team embarked on a test along the Adria-Mestre route in Italy.

The vehicle was observed operating autonomously without a driver on a pre-existing track for the first time. IronLev’s trial demonstrated the feasibility of employing magnetic levitation trains on currently operational railway lines, providing a glimpse into the future of public transport and freight systems with a focus on reducing noise and vibration.

Throughout the trial, the prototype vehicle, weighing one tonne, traversed the reference track at a 70 km/h self-imposed speed. IronLev mentioned that no modifications were made to the 2-kilometre-long test track, and the magnetic levitation prototype was not augmented with any additional components. As depicted in shared video footage, the magnetic skids enabled the vehicle to levitate independently, directly interacting with the conventional railway tracks even in the absence of a train driver.

Magnetic levitation has existed for some time, yet transport companies have seldom adopted it due to its intricate technology, significant costs, and restricted applicability. IronLev’s experiments could potentially change the tide in their favour, encouraging more companies to resume efforts abandoned in the past. Magnetic levitation trains levitate above a track using magnets instead of rolling on wheels, creating an air cushion between the train and the track. This absence of contact reduces friction, allowing the train to achieve higher speeds and consume less energy.

Moreover, magnetic levitation trains eliminate the need for wheels, and consequently, the harsh noises produced during braking or when coming to a complete stop are also eradicated. This ensures a smoother and quieter journey, and furthermore, the lack of contact means reduced vibrations, offering passengers and freight a steadier ride.

IronLev uses simple ferromagnetic material properties, or regular steel, that can work on any iron rail without requiring ad-hoc infrastructure to be built. The company says it doesn’t need any to build new tracks for the magnetic levitation trains since the technology can be used on existing train tracks. The trains they’re developing don’t need constant electricity to levitate, which can cut down on energy use. In a nutshell, Ironlev is attempting to produce trains that can continuously float, operate at all times, and hover on regular train tracks without generating friction or needing extra electricity to float.

IronLev is already focusing on developing an additional motorised trolley, which will play a crucial part in the company’s next experiment with a complete magnetic levitation train. The vehicle is anticipated to weigh up to 20 tonnes with a maximum speed of up to 200 km/h.