China plans to build a 1.5km-long maglev test track in the next 3 years and develop its own "feasible" magnetic levitation train, the Ministry of Construction said on Sunday.

Beijing Morning Post reported that the maglev project is part of the country's 11th "Five-Year Plan."

The maglev contract will be given to a Beijing company and the plan requires the test maglev train to be capable of reaching speeds of no less than 100km/h and to have a minimum load capacity of 12 tons. The technological standards of this maglev train should match those of its international counterparts.

The project also includes the development of suitable power-supply system and control system.

The test track will be built in two cities, but sources from the Ministry of Construction did not reveal which cities.

(CRIENGLISH.com June 10, 2007)