Berlin Will Test a New Maglev Train

Berlin is set to embrace a futuristic approach to urban mobility with the introduction of a new magnetic levitation (maglev) train.

This initiative, propelled by a coalition of the CDU and SPD parties, represents a significant investment in green and efficient transportation technologies.

A specialized test track, spanning five to seven kilometers, is planned for construction in Berlin. Dirk Stettner, the CDU parliamentary group leader, has been instrumental in guiding this project. The maglev train is designed to function autonomously without drivers, catering to both passenger and freight transport needs.

The project’s estimated cost stands at around 80 million euros, set to be funded through the city’s dedicated climate fund. Maglev technology, leveraging magnetic forces for levitation, offers numerous benefits. It is not only faster than traditional U-Bahn lines but also boasts lower maintenance costs, reduced noise pollution, and improved energy efficiency.

Additionally, the maglev train’s ability to traverse over various obstacles like canals, rivers, and roads without extensive infrastructural modifications further enhances its appeal. The comparative ease and speed of constructing maglev systems, as opposed to traditional U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines, make it a viable and appealing option for urban transport expansion.

A working group consisting of experts from the BVG, the Senate, and various transport providers has been diligently assessing potential routes for this innovative transport line. The exact location and start date for the construction of the test track remain to be announced.

Berlin’s history with magnetic levitation trains dates back to 1984, when the M-Bahn ran between Gleisdreieck in Kreuzberg and Kemperplatz in Tiergarten. However, post-reunification developments led to the dismantlement of these facilities to make way for the expansion of the U2 line.

Manja Schreiner, Berlin’s Transport Senator, and the Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (VBB) have expressed strong support for this venture. The maglev train is seen as a vital addition to Berlin’s transport network, potentially easing car traffic by offering a sustainable alternative.

This innovative project aligns with Berlin’s broader transportation strategy, which has explored various options, including a Transrapid route connecting Berlin and Hamburg. Despite past challenges and protests, the CDU’s renewed focus on maglev technology, especially in the context of Berlin’s evolving transport needs, underscores the city’s commitment to pioneering and eco-friendly transportation solutions.