The Transrapid Maglev System - An Update

This paper presents the status of the Transrapid Maglev System and the first commercial super-speed maglev application in the world planned for Orlando, Florida. It includes a brief summary of SAE paper No. 89 1714 which was presented in August 1989 and covers subsequent developments. It also includes some discussion of institutional factors to be considered when planning the implementation of a new system.

The purpose of this paper is to provide an update on the status of the 500 km/hr super-speed magnetically levitated ground transportation system that was developed in Germany. This maglev system features contactless electromagnetic suspension and long stator three-phase propulsion. This transportation mode has little effect on the environment, is safe and cost effective.