Improved Railway Performance by Maglev Derived Systems: Technological readiness and operational concepts in specific use cases of Maglev Derived Systems

Abstract

This contribution is reporting on results gained in the project MaDe4Rail, funded by the Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking. It gives an overview of the technological readiness assessment of various extant and forthcoming Magnetic Levitation Derived Systems (MDS) identified during the initial phases of the MaDe4Rail Project. From multiple promising approaches, three are identified for a Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA): Two hybrid approaches using maglev propulsion in combination with in combination maglev levitation for the first and with air levitation for the second use case. The third one is the MDS as an upgrade for a conventional rail system e.g. locally as incline pusher. This use case has been extended by a further use case for intermodal terminals. Finally, the pure maglev system is analysed as a baseline. . The selected use cases offer technological advancements that promise significant operational and commercial benefits for rail operators and users when compared to conventional wheel-on-rail systems. Some potential benefits, such as increased acceleration or vehicle frequency are related to an integrated evolution of signaling and operation.