800 km an hour in 5 seconds: China's bullet train breaks its own world record
Maglev trains in China and Japan typically run at around 320 kmph, while China's fastest commercial high-speed rail services are capable of reaching 350 kmph.
China's experimental maglev bullet train recently shattered its own speed record by accelerating from 0 to 800 kilometers per hour in just 5.3 seconds, according to a report by Independent. The ultra-high-speed train, currently in its experimental phase, achieved this remarkable feat on a 1km test-track at Donghu Laboratory in Hubei province.
This third record-breaking acceleration occurred within a six-month span, surpassing the previous mark of 798 kilometers per hour set earlier. The previous record was established in December 2025 when the train reached 700 kilometers per hour in just 2 seconds.
China's maglev trains typically operate at speeds around 320 kmph, while the country's fastest commercial high-speed rail services can reach approximately 350 kmph. Maglev technology allows trains to levitate and travel without direct contact with the rails, utilizing magnetic fields to suspend the vehicle and eliminate friction.
The latest experimental train demonstrated its ability to handle both rapid acceleration and controlled deceleration, surging from 0 to 800 kmph before safely slowing down and halting over a 200-meter distance. Researchers also tested critical technologies such as high-power energy delivery, high-speed levitation control, electromagnetic propulsion, and emergency braking.
Chinese scientists are exploring next-generation maglev systems designed for operation in tubes with extremely low air pressure or near-vacuum conditions. Previous efforts include a maglev prototype capable of reaching speeds up to 600 kmph, developed by CRRC Qingdao Sifang in 2020. Researchers at Southwest Jiaotong University in Chengdu are advancing high-temperature superconducting maglev technology to develop trains exceeding 600 kmph.
While the system remains in the experimental stage, researchers believe the technology could potentially be adapted for spacecraft and military aircraft launches. However, it's important to note that the experimental bullet train cannot currently be used for passenger travel.
Written by urgent.news from Hindustan Times - World News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
