What is Maglev? 

Maglev—short for magnetic levitation—uses powerful magnetic forces to lift trains above the track and propel them forward. With no wheels and virtually no friction, Maglev trains reach speeds of over 300 miles per hour while delivering a ride that’s faster, smoother, quieter and safer than traditional rail systems.

Why use Maglev?

We want to introduce Maglev technology to SC because it has already been proven globally. Not only is it fast and efficient, but it is also one of the safest forms of transportation. 

Japan’s Shinkansen has carried 150 million passengers annually at speeds up to 285 km/hr since 1964—with zero passenger fatalities.

China’s Maglev reaches speeds of 373 mph, with future potential of over 600 mph.

Germany’s Transrapid set a world record of 279 mph during testing and provided the technology behind Shanghai’s Maglev, which has been operating successfully since 2004.

Why not high-speed rail?

High-speed rail may seem more affordable upfront, but its long-term costs and safety issues make it impractical for South Carolina. High-speed trains rely on 32 steel wheels that must be kept within one one-hundredth of an inch, with replacements costing up to $7 million each. Our current rail system cannot support true high-speed service without billions in upgrades. Maglev costs more to build initially but is far cheaper to maintain since it eliminates wheels and rail wear. It can also be built along interstate corridors, reducing land and construction costs. Most importantly, maglev is safer. Maglev’s aerodynamic design avoids turbulence at ground level.

How does it benefit SC?

Unmatched Efficiency: Nonstop service for 600 passengers or up to 100 tons of freight per trip.

Reduced Congestion: Each trip removes the equivalent of 14 tractor-trailers from South Carolina highways while expanding the need for regional drivers.

Smart Infrastructure: Routes planned along interstate medians, minimizing construction disruption and dramatically lowering the cost of implementation across the board.

Safe & Reliable: Designed for South Carolina’s terrain, ensuring smooth implementation and long-term performance.

Will this affect the existing rail lines? 

No. Osprey Rail will not utilize or interfere with the existing rail lines operated by other companies. Traditional freight rail remains essential to South Carolina’s economy.

Instead of competing with those services, Osprey Rail is designed to complement them. Our Maglev system focuses on high-speed passenger travel and light freight, helping reduce highway congestion while creating new logistics opportunities. 

By introducing this technology, we aim to bring additional investment, jobs, and infrastructure improvements to South Carolina while supporting the continued growth and expertise of the state’s existing rail industry.

What is the current status of the project?

Osprey Rail was founded more than a decade ago, backed by hundreds of thousands of research hours and significant investment. That foundation has brought us to an exciting milestone—this year, we begin our official feasibility study in partnership with federal and state governments, working alongside South Carolina’s world-class university system.

How much will this cost?

The feasibility study underway will help determine the final cost. As a part of the 1.2 trillion dollar infrastructure bill passed by Congress, funds to build these systems were set aside and are waiting to be invested in our state, without the necessity of raising our taxes to pay for our eventual expansion.

How much electricity will this use?

Maglev trains are powered by electromagnetic technology, which is significantly more efficient and environmentally friendly than gasoline-powered cars or jet-fueled planes. For perspective, planes use about 21.4 kWh per mile, while the average South Carolina home consumes 34.1 kWh in an entire day. Actual usage depends on factors like terrain, and South Carolina’s flat landscape gives us a major advantage, allowing for significant energy savings during operation. By reducing emissions and relying on clean electricity, maglev provides a greener, more sustainable way to travel across our state.

How can I support this project?

If you’d like to see Maglev rail in South Carolina, there are several ways to get involved. You can follow Osprey Rail on social media to stay updated on our progress, share this website with friends and neighbors to help build awareness, and reach out directly to your local state and federal officials to voice your support. Community interest and advocacy play a major role in moving this project forward, and every voice helps bring us closer to making high-speed travel a reality in South Carolina.