SCMAGLEV

SCMaglev is a high-speed magnetic levitation technology developed by Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central). The system uses superconducting magnets on the train to create levitation, with a guideway containing coils and linear motors that provide levitation, guidance, and propulsion. This arrangement allows the train to travel with very low friction, enabling higher speeds and reduced wear and noise compared with conventional rail.

Technically, SCMaglev employs onboard superconducting magnets that interact with the guideway’s coils to generate lift. Propulsion and precise control are achieved through a linear motor system embedded in the track. The design targets very high speeds and is intended to support rapid, intercity travel with lower maintenance needs due to the absence of contact between train and guideway.

Development began in the 1990s as part of JR Central’s efforts to create a faster intercity link. A dedicated test line in Yamanashi Prefecture has been used for extensive testing, including runs that exceeded 600 km/h during demonstrations in the 2010s. SCMaglev is a central technology for the Chuo Shinkansen project, which aims to run trains on the Tokyo–Nagoya corridor with future plans to extend toward Osaka.

Status and outlook: As of the mid-2020s, commercial service has not yet begun. Construction and testing are ongoing for the Chuo Shinkansen line, with the initial segments planned to open in stages after safety certification. The project envisions reducing travel time between Tokyo and Nagoya to around 40 minutes and extending the system to Osaka in later phases.