Magnetic Levitation Trains could be ‘Made in India’
Magnetic levitation trains or more popularly known as Maglev trains are one of the most exciting technology innovation of the 21st century. Now soon this technological wonder will be manufactured and running in India.
This has been made possible by leading Navratna heavy machinery manufacturer Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). BHEL, looking to expand its footprint in urban transportation has signed an MoU with SwissRapide AG for Maglev train projects in India.
What are Maglev Trains?
Maglev trains are long leap of technology in railway transportation. These trains are truly flying trains as they have no physical contact with the rail track. The technology is based on the principle of magnetic repulsion between the cars of train and the track. Both the track and cars are magnetically charged using Electrodynamic suspension system which can support both forward and backward movement. It significantly reduces operating costs and could achieve speeds of 500 Km per hour.
Indigenous Manufacturing by BHEL
In an attempt to bring this technology to India for indigenous manufacturing, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Mr. SV Srinivasan, GM & Head (Transportation Business Group), on behalf of BHEL and Mr. Niklaus H Koenig, President and CEO, on behalf of SwissRapide AG on 16th September 2020.
According to terms of agreement ‘BHEL and SwissRapide AG will cooperate and explore mutually beneficial business opportunities, and to utilise both the companies’ inherent capabilities, skills, knowledge and assets, with respect to the scope of Maglev Train projects in India’.
About BHEL: India’s largest power generation equipment manufacturer was established in 1964. It has commissioned 58 sets of supercritical boilers and 53 sets of supercritical steam turbine generators so far. It has a network of 17 manufacturing units, 2 repair units, 4 regional offices, 8 service centres, 8 overseas offices, 15 regional centres, and 7 joint ventures.
About SwissRapide AG: SwissRapide AG is a Zurich, Switzerland based company founded in 2008, is international leader for planning, financing, construction and operation of sustainable, ultra-speed Maglev rail systems, designed to meet the growing demand for mobility in cities, regions and countries around the world.