Commuters in China may soon be streaming ultra-high-definition videos and playing lag-free mobile games while traveling on 1,000km/h maglev trains. China, already boasting high-speed rail operating at 350km/h with in-tunnel 5G connectivity, is pushing the boundaries of transportation technology.
This next-generation high-speed rail, still under development, aims to surpass commercial aircraft speeds by utilizing magnetic levitation within vacuum tubes. However, maintaining consistent communication between mobile devices and base stations at near-sonic speeds presents significant challenges. The Doppler effect, caused by the train’s rapid movement, disrupts the stable high-frequency signals required for data transmission. Furthermore, installing base stations within the near-vacuum tubes poses safety risks if antennas become dislodged due to vibrations.
Researchers at Southeast University, led by Professor Song Tiecheng from the State Key Laboratory of Mobile Communications, have proposed an innovative solution to simplify base station installation. Their approach involves deploying two parallel cables along the inner walls of the vacuum tube. These specialized cables emit electromagnetic signals, enabling continuous, stable connectivity between smartphones and the mobile network. By employing efficient encoding techniques and fine-tuning parameters, the researchers aim to minimize disruptions caused by the Doppler effect. Initial computer simulations indicate this method can support stable 5G data transmission.
Engineers from the electric and magnetic propulsion laboratory at the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIS) are collaborating on this project. CASIS recently conducted high-speed propulsion tests on prototype vehicles at the world’s largest vacuum tube maglev test facility in Datong, Shanxi province.
This technology addresses two major limitations of conventional trains: wheel-rail friction and air resistance. Magnetic levitation eliminates friction, while operating within a vacuum tube drastically reduces air resistance and noise pollution.
Several Chinese cities are seeking approval from Beijing to construct the first commercial vacuum tube maglev lines, a concept known as “hyperloop,” initially proposed by Elon Musk. However, China is currently the only nation actively pursuing this technology after Musk abandoned the project late last year due to technological and financial hurdles.
Over the past 15 years, China has heavily invested in its high-speed rail network, developing advanced research, engineering, and manufacturing capabilities. Experts believe these resources can now be applied to the nascent stages of hyperloop development, which China is actively testing.
Potential hyperloop routes include Beijing-Shijiazhuang, aiming to alleviate congestion around the capital, and Guangzhou-Shenzhen, connecting two major economic hubs.
While safety testing, regulations, and infrastructure development remain crucial, China’s hyperloop system is projected to be operational by 2025.
