Status, Prospects, and Factors Affecting U.S. Development of Maglev Transportation Technology

Magnetic levitation, better known as maglev, is the non-contact suspension, friction-free usage of rail vehicles powered by electromagnetic forces. This paper reviews the technological development of the maglev concept, the factors affecting development for urban transit and inter-city travel (including the role of the government), and the future prospects of maglev systems. The economic feasibility of maglev systems is addressed in detail, including funding for such projects and ridership market issues.