How much did the Shanghai maglev project cost?

Cost of the Shanghai Maglev Project

The Shanghai Maglev project, an impressive engineering feat, involved substantial financial investment. The construction of the 30-kilometer line, stretching from the Longyang Road metro station to the Pudong International Airport, commenced in 2001 and was completed in two and a half years.

The total cost of the project amounted to a hefty ¥10 billion (equivalent to approximately US$1.33 billion). This significant investment reflects the technological complexity and scale of the undertaking. The maglev (magnetic levitation) technology employed on the line allows trains to hover above the track, resulting in reduced friction and enabling speeds of up to 460 kilometers per hour (286 miles per hour).

The Shanghai Maglev line holds the distinction of being the world’s first commercial high-speed maglev line. Its successful implementation not only provides a convenient and rapid transportation link but also serves as a testament to China’s engineering prowess and dedication to infrastructure development.