United States Department of Transportation
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Report to Congress: Costs and Benefits of Magnetic Levitation
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2005-09-01
[PDF-1.18 MB]
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Abstract:This report to Congress examines the costs and benefits of magnetic levitation (Maglev) technology as a transportation mode in comparison to other high-speed ground transportation options, particularly incremental and new high-speed rail systems. It provides a comprehensive overview of Maglev technology, including its operational principles, deployment programs, and the types of travel markets it serves. The report highlights the significant capital costs associated with Maglev systems, which range from $40 to $100 million per mile, making them the most expensive form of high-speed ground transportation currently available. Despite the high costs, Maglev promises substantial benefits, including faster travel times, increased passenger comfort, and reduced maintenance needs due to its contactless operation. However, the analysis reveals that while Maglev can provide significant travel time reductions in certain corridors (ideally between 150 to 500 miles), existing technologies such as incremental high-speed rail may yield better cost-effectiveness and benefits in many scenarios. The report stresses the uncertainties and challenges associated with Maglev, emphasizing the need for further evaluation and consideration of local conditions before undertaking large-scale investments in this technology.
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