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JR Central Unveils New M10 Maglev Train, Begins High-Speed Test Runs
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Info based on: https://www.msn.com/ja-jp/money/other/% ... r-AA1JjP6o Accessed 26-07-2025

Yamanashi, Japan – July 25, 2025 – Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) has launched its next-generation maglev prototype, the M10, at a departure ceremony held at the Tsuru Maintenance Base in Yamanashi Prefecture. Company President Shunsuke Niwa and Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki attended the event and celebrated the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Following the event, the M10 commenced high-speed test runs on the Yamanashi Maglev Test Line, reaching speeds of up to 500 km/h.

The M10 introduces a completely redesigned exterior and incorporates multiple innovations to reduce environmental impact. Its unpainted aluminum body eliminates the need for energy-intensive paint-drying processes during manufacturing. Additionally, the train’s surface is covered with a film featuring micro-grooves inspired by shark skin, significantly reducing air resistance during operation.

Another breakthrough is the implementation of high-temperature superconducting magnets, which require cooling to only minus 255°C, compared to the previous standard of minus 269°C. This advancement eliminates the need for liquid helium tanks and simplifies the internal magnet structure, further improving energy efficiency.

Info based on: https://www.msn.com/ja-jp/money/other/% ... r-AA1JjP6o Accessed 26-07-2025

リニア新車両「M10」走行開始 無塗装、簡素化で空気抵抗を削減
JR Central Unveils New “M10” Maglev Test Train – Sleek, Unpainted Design Cuts Costs and Drag


Info based on Kyodo News, Japan https://www.msn.com/ja-jp/money/other/% ... r-AA1Jh1EG Accessed 2025.08-19
. . Photo: https://www.msn.com/ja-jp/money/other/% ... r-AA1Jh1EG Accessed 2025.08-19

JR Central has launched trial runs of its new “M10” test train for the Chuo Shinkansen maglev line, holding a departure ceremony on the Yamanashi Maglev Test Track in Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture, on the 25th. Among the guests were Governor Kotaro Nagasaki and local kindergarten children.

To the children’s cheers, the silver-bodied train made its debut. Unlike the previous all-white models, the M10 sports an unpainted metallic finish accented with a gold stripe. Designed as a middle car to run between the front and rear vehicles, it can be combined with existing L0 series test trains.

The M10’s simplified equipment layout lowers manufacturing costs, while redesigned bogie structures reduce air resistance. Forgoing the painting process also avoids around nine tons of CO2 emissions per car.

JR Central President Shunsuke Niwa pledged to push ahead with the project, saying: “We will ensure safety and move forward with the understanding of local communities, doing everything we can to achieve an early opening.” Governor Nagasaki added: “We are committed to contributing as much as possible so the line can open without delay.”


Info based on Kyodo News, Japan https://www.msn.com/ja-jp/money/other/% ... r-AA1Jh1EG Accessed 2025.08-19