China’s maglev breakthrough hits 700 km/h in seconds, reshaping the future of transport

China has set a new world record in magnetic levitation technology after accelerating a ton-class superconducting maglev test vehicle to 700 kilometres per hour in just two seconds. The achievement, reported by state broadcaster CCTV, marks the fastest acceleration ever recorded for an electric maglev system and cements China’s position at the forefront of ultra-high-speed transport innovation.

The test was conducted by researchers at the National University of Defense Technology on a 400-metre track, where footage showed the vehicle flashing across the rail-like structure in a blur, leaving a misty trail behind it. The breakthrough follows more than a decade of research tackling complex challenges such as ultra-high-speed electromagnetic propulsion, electric suspension guidance systems, and high-field superconducting magnets, all of which are critical to stable travel at extreme speeds.

Hyperloop technology

Beyond headline-grabbing velocity, the milestone opens the door to future transport systems, including vacuum-tube maglev networks, commonly referred to as hyperloop technology. Scientists say the same advancements could also be applied to aerospace launch assistance, electromagnetic launch systems, and advanced experimental testing. According to Professor Li Jie from the National University of Defense Technology, the successful trial will significantly accelerate China’s research into frontier technologies, with future work focusing on pipeline-based high-speed transport and aerospace equipment testing.

While China now leads in superconducting maglev acceleration, global competition remains fierce. Japan still holds the record for the fastest manned train, with its L0 Series maglev reaching 603 kilometres per hour during testing in 2015. China, however, operates the world’s only commercial maglev service — the Shanghai Maglev — which currently runs at 300 kilometres per hour after its top speed was reduced from 431 kilometres per hour in 2021.

The December test builds on earlier progress made this year, including a 1.1-ton test sled that reached 650 kilometres per hour in seven seconds over a 600-metre track in June 2025. Together, these developments signal rapid momentum in China’s push toward next-generation transport systems that could redefine how people and payloads move across the planet.