Institution responds to Japanese maglev train breaking world speed record

The Institution's Philippa Oldham says this is a hugely exciting milestone which shows just how far behind the UK is falling.

Philippa Oldham, Head of Transport at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said in response to Japan’s maglev train setting a new world speed record:

“Even though it is for Maglev rather than a conventional train, this world speed record is a hugely exciting milestone and shows the potential for high speed train travel. Considering that the UK developed the first railways, it now shows just how far behind we are falling. While Maglev technology is not appropriate for use in the UK, due both to its high costs and incompatibility with conventional rail infrastructure, this record illustrates how advanced high speed train technology now is.

“This latest technological advancement demonstrates Japan’s vision and ambition to develop a truly integrated transport network, which includes conventional high speed rail, something that we are distinctly lacking in the UK.

“The new UK Government that enters power after the election needs to move away from piecemeal transport projects and work with the Transport Systems Catapult to develop a properly integrated system, which includes road, rail, sea and air travel – connecting airport hubs and ports through the development of a high speed rail network for example. Having a clear plan will provide investor confidence and allows for forward planning and the preservation of skills. The engineering skills needed to develop major projects like these cannot be created overnight. The new Government must not delay decisions and risk sleep-walking into losing the talent and expertise of people working on projects like Crossrail.”