In the German capital Berlin, politicians are again discussing whether the construction of a magnetic levitation train for local transport is an option. In what was then the western part of the city, a similar concept was in test operation between 1984 and 1991.

Germany and magnetic levitation trains have a history like this, because the Transrapid was developed with the help of generous subsidies. However, the consortium was unable to land a single order domestically. But probably from China, where the Shanghai Maglev was built, albeit on a smaller scale than originally hoped, and is in commercial service.

There were numerous projects in Germany, but none of them were implemented. Ultimately, the lack of interest led to the Transrapid consortium dissolving itself by resolution of the shareholders' meeting. The technology of the Transrapid, which was actually developed for long-distance transport, is not the same as that of the former Berlin M-Bahn. There are even significant differences.

After 1991, things became very quiet about magnetic levitation trains in the federal capital for a long time. Now there is talk at the political level that building these could be cheaper than building new subway lines. The CDU also expects advantages in ongoing operations, as this would be driverless. A connection to Berlin-Brandenburg Airport could initially be built as a possible test route.

CDU parliamentary group leader Dirk Stettner puts this at possible construction costs between 80 and 85 million euros. There is a fundamental agreement with the coalition partner SPD that when selecting the means of transport with which to expand public transport, magnetic levitation trains can also be considered. However, the construction of the Maglev, which is in the idea phase, has not yet been budgeted for.

The politically responsible people expect a possible magnetic levitation train to Berlin-Brandenburg Airport, which could be financed via the “Special Climate Protection Fund”, not only to make efforts in terms of carbon dioxide reduction, but also as a kind of attraction that should attract enthusiasts from different countries. In fact, magnetic levitation trains are still relatively rare in direct comparison with trains and/or subways.