MAGNETIC LEVITATION AS A TRANSPORTATION OPTION. SESSION 9

This paper documents the magnetic levitation systems rapidly approaching commercial reality and then considers some of the planning implications of this technology. There are 3 basic sections: (1) Review of the general principles by which maglev vehicles operate along with their advantages over conventional rail; (2) State of development of the 4 most advanced maglev systems; (3) Planning implications and prospects for this technology in the western United States and Canada. Because magnetic levitation systems offer several advantages, they deserve consideration in plans for high-speed ground and transit services. Prospects for maglev in the western U.S. and Canada are intertwined with prospects for high-speed ground transportation and automated guideway transit. Prospects for HSGT in the West appear limited because of the small number of dense, mature corridors. On the other hand, light rail transit activity is increasing and maglev can capture a share of this market.