The TGV train that broke the 357.2 mph land record in 2007 was not a standard configuration train nor did they run it on tracks open to other trains. The train was specially modified with openings of the leading power unit pantograph closed to reduce drag, there were more powered axles than conventional TGV duplex trains, fewer carriages than regular Duplex, centenary wire tension was higher, voltages were higher, track segment where the record was broken was slightly downhill & the route was just completed but not yet open to regular train service.
These are just my opinion,
Thanks,
Naveen Rajan
The TGV speed record is 357 mph. So maglev has gone 20 mph faster but cannot run on conventional tracks to reach non-high-speed parts of the rail network like the TGV does. And there are other trade-offs that make me wonder if maglev can be cost effective versus TGV, ICE, and even Japan's own Shinkansen/bullet trains.
