- https://cdn.schwaebische.de/2025/10/16
. Photo by TSB Boegl in https://www.schwaebische.de/regional/ba ... ll-4017126 Accessed on 2025-10-18
Augsburg is preparing to take a bold step toward modern transportation: the city is considering the construction of a magnetic levitation (maglev) line to strengthen its public transit network. Once a center of innovation during the Fugger era, Augsburg now aims to create a new “sensation” in urban mobility.
Rainer Nauerz, director of the city’s public utilities, confirmed that new transport solutions are being evaluated, including maglevs, gondolas, and express bus lines. He emphasized the maglev’s quiet operation, low maintenance requirements, and long-term potential, though acknowledged that such prospects “still feel almost surreal today.” Augsburg’s most pressing challenge remains the long-delayed Tram Line 5, intended to link the main railway station with the university hospital. Its cost-benefit ratio has deteriorated, prompting renewed discussion of alternative systems.
One candidate is the Transport System Bögl (TSB), developed by the Bavarian engineering firm Max Bögl in 2010. The TSB can transport passengers or freight on an independent elevated guideway, conserving space and avoiding road intersections. Tests on an 850-meter demonstration track near Sengenthal indicate a capacity of up to 35,000 passengers per hour per direction, a top speed of 150 km/h, and near-silent operation. The driverless system also promises lower operational costs than conventional trams.
Nürnberg previously explored the feasibility of a short maglev link to its trade fairgrounds, but experts questioned its advantages over traditional trams, especially given the need for system transfers. Observers now speculate that Max Bögl may redirect its interest toward Augsburg following Nürnberg’s hesitation.
Within Augsburg, reactions are divided. Supporters hail the project as a visionary leap toward sustainable mobility, while critics dismiss it as overly ambitious or impractical. The debate continues.
Info based on: https://www.schwaebische.de/regional/ba ... ll-4017126 Accessed on 2025-10-18