Chinese researchers have accelerated a 1.1-ton test vehicle on a maglev track to a top speed of 650 kilometers per hour in just seven seconds over a distance of 600 meters, setting a new world record in the process according to the research team.
"You can see that at the 7-second mark, the speed has increased to 650 kilometers per hour after 600 meters. This speed index is the highest ever worldwide," said Li Weichao, Director of the High-Speed Maglev Electromagnetic Propulsion Technology Innovation Center at Donghu Laboratory in central China's Hubei Province..
With powerful electromagnetic propulsion and precise speed measurement and positioning, the magnetic levitation or maglev system can also bring a vehicle to a halt from such high speeds in just 200 meters of track. This powerful acceleration and braking control make the high-speed maglev test track a vital platform for the research, development, and testing for China’s high-speed railway network.
"There are numerous potential uses in civilian scenarios. The technology from this test track is already being promoted and used in other research facilities,” said Li.
Chinese maglev vehicle hits 650 km/h on test track
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned on Sunday that Tehran would view the United States and Israel's military bases and facilities in the Middle East as "legitimate targets" should Washington take military action against Iran.
At a parliamentary session convened to review an emergency proposal on assembly regulations, Qalibaf emphasized that, at this highly sensitive juncture, Iran must accurately and thoroughly identify the schemes of its adversaries.
Qalibaf said that Iran is currently confronting Israel and the United States simultaneously on four fronts: economic, cognitive, military, and counterterrorism. Of them, the economic warfare and the cognitive and psychological warfare began many years ago and have persisted to this day, growing increasingly complex and intense in recent years.
The remarks came as U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly "seriously considering authorizing a strike" against Iran, taking advantage of its nationwide unrest.
Protests have erupted in several Iranian cities since late December over the sharp fall of the rial and long-standing economic hardship. Iranian authorities have acknowledged the demonstrations and voiced willingness to address economic grievances, while warning against violence and vandalism.
Amid the ongoing protests, deadly clashes have been reported lately between police and what the government described as "rioters." However, no official death toll has been released.
Also on Sunday, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian will address the country's economic situation and political environment in a televised interview later that day.
Iran swears to counterattack if attacked
