The Japanese maglev (magnetic levitation) train has set a new speed record…500 kph.
With passengers!
Amazing…at ground level, that’s a fantastic speed.
But, did you know that maglev technology, based on superconducting linear motors, was developed in Britain? Obviously, it was too expensive and we gave up…grr! That’s another pathetic failure of imagination, that let down our scientific and creative communities.
Well done Japan!
There’s a short film, without commentary, here
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-30051961