Japan is developing the world’s fastest train, the L0 Series maglev, which has reached test speeds of 603.5km/h, far ahead of Europe’s fastest trains such as France’s TGV or Italy’s Italo, which run at around 300–350km/h.
Built by Central Japan Railway Company, the train will operate on the new Chuo Shinkansen line, cutting travel time between Tokyo and Nagoya to about 40 minutes, and eventually linking Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka in roughly one hour. The project relies on magnetic levitation (maglev) technology, which lifts the train above the track, reducing friction and allowing extreme speeds.
However, the project is hugely expensive – costing nearly €60bn so far – and has been delayed, with opening now expected around 2034–2035.
While the technology is impressive, experts say it would be difficult to replicate in Europe or the UK. The train requires entirely new infrastructure, mostly underground tunnels, consumes far more energy than conventional high-speed rail, and carries fewer passengers. European rail markets also tend to prioritise comfort, capacity and scenic travel over extreme speed, except on a few business-focused routes.
For now, Japan’s record-breaking maglev is unlikely to make the leap to Europe.
