China's Third Maglev Line

China's Third Maglev Line

China is know for its ferociously fast Shanghai maglev line that runs between the Pudong International Airport and Longyang Road station while reaching 431 km/h (268 mph) top speeds along the way. Little known is that China's first mid-low speed (second commercial) maglev line was opened in 2016. Here we are in 2017 looking for the newest maglev addition in China, the Beijing maglev line.

Changsha Maglev Express

The Changsha Maglev Express stretches over 18.55 kilometers (11.5 miles) and connects Changsha Huanghua International Airport, Langli station and the high-speed railway station Changsha South Railway Station with a cruising speed of 100 km/h (62 mph).

Beijing Maglev

Beijing Maglev Trains

The third line is located in Beijing, the 10.2 km (6.3 miles) S1 line connects the western suburban districts of Mentougou and Shijingshan. The operational speed is the same as on the Changsha Maglev Express: 100 km/h (62 mph).

Photo by Lars Plougmann

China Maglev Facts

1. Shanghai Maglev

  • Opened in 2004

  • Top speed: 431 km/h (268 mph)

  • Length: 30.5 km (18.95 mi)

    2. Changsha Maglev

  • Opened in 2016

  • Top speed: 100 km/h (62 mph)

  • Length: 18.55 km (11.53 mi)

    3. Beijing Maglev

  • Opened in 2017

  • Top speed: 100 km/h (62 mph)

  • Length: 10.2 km (6.3 miles)