This visit has the main objective of promoting the economic growth and workforce development in Maryland, with a special focus on future transportation technology.
Accompanied by a delegation including representatives from the Executive Office of the Governor, the Office of the Secretary of State, the Maryland Department of Commerce, the Department of Transportation, and the private sector, Moore visited the Yamanashi Maglev Center. There, the group received a briefing and took a test ride on the train. Superconducting Maglev, recognized as the fastest and most advanced in the world.
“As we embark on our first international trade mission, we are focusing both on the industries and technologies of the future and on areas where Maryland has unique advantages to compete and succeed,” Moore said. “A robust public transportation infrastructure is essential to connecting residents from their homes to where opportunities lie. We are thrilled with the opportunity to experience this incredible technology firsthand and excited to learn more about its potential.”
Maglev technology uses powerful magnetic fields to lift and propel trains without contact with the tracks, eliminating friction and allowing for smoother and significantly faster rides than conventional rail systems. Some models can exceed 370 miles per hour (almost 600 km/h), offering an efficient and fast solution.
Japan is a world leader in high-speed rail. Central Japan Railways, operator of the Maglev, also manages the safest, busiest, and most profitable line in the world, transporting approximately 150 million passengers annually on its iconic bullet trains.
Interest in this technology is not new to Maryland. The Northeast Maglev project, together with Baltimore-Washington Rapid Rail, has promoted studies to implement a similar system in the United States' Northeast Corridor. The vision is to first connect Washington, D.C., and Baltimore—a trip that would take less than 15 minutes—before extending to New York.
Wayne Rogers, president of Northeast Maglev, who accompanied the delegation, commented on the project's transformative potential: “We are pleased that Governor Moore and the Maryland delegation had the opportunity to experience firsthand the tremendous economic development that Japan has achieved by implementing its high-speed rail system. Traveling on the train at 311 miles per hour (500 km/h), one can clearly imagine the transformative impact of maglev technology.” Rogers added: “With the potential to create more than 160.000 jobs, reduce traffic and air emissions, the maglev train would place Baltimore at the center of the dynamic Northeast Corridor. With a 15-minute commute from Baltimore to Washington and a 45-minute commute from New York, Maryland would lead an economic resurgence for the region.”
Following the technological experience, the delegation made a cultural visit to Mount Fuji, a symbol of great historical and religious significance for Japan. The day concluded with a briefing on investment and trade led by the U.S. Commercial Services, the promotional arm of the U.S. Department of Commerce, to explore global opportunities.
This mission underscores the Moore administration's focus on positioning Maryland at the forefront of technological innovation and economic development, actively pursuing international collaborations and technologies that can benefit the state and its citizens.
Opportunities and Relevance for the Spanish Railway Sector
Although Governor Moore's mission to Japan focuses on Maglev technology, which originates in Japan, this movement and the associated Northeast Corridor project are definitely relevant to Spanish rail companies for several reasons:
US High Speed Market: The Maglev project (Washington, D.C. – Baltimore – New York) is one of several attempts to develop a high-speed rail network in the United States. Although this specific project uses Japanese technology, its progress or difficulties send important signals about the political, financial, and technical feasibility of large infrastructure projects in the U.S. Its success or failure could influence other corridors where conventional technologies, such as those used in Spain's AVE high-speed rail system, are the primary options (e.g., California, Texas).
Opportunities in Infrastructure and Construction: A Maglev project requires a huge amount of conventional civil works:
- Tunnels and Viaducts: Much of the proposed route will require complex tunnels and viaducts. Major Spanish construction companies (such as ACS and Ferrovial) are world leaders in this type of complex infrastructure.
- Seasons: Design and construction or adaptation.
- Earthworks: Site preparation and structural installation require heavy-duty capabilities.
Opportunities in Engineering and Consulting
Spanish engineering firms, such as IDOM, TYPSA, and SENER, have extensive international experience in the design, planning, construction supervision, and management of conventional high-speed rail projects. They could offer services in:
- Complementary feasibility studies.
- Detailed design of civil works.
- Adaptation to American regulations and standards.
- Environmental and territorial integration consulting.
- Construction management and supervision.
Supply chain
Although the technological core (trains, levitation and propulsion systems) is Japanese, the project will require a multitude of components and materials for the infrastructure (steel, cement, precast concrete, auxiliary systems), for which Spanish companies could participate as suppliers.
Possible Domino Effect
If Maglev proves viable and successful—although it still faces significant financial and construction challenges—it could drive greater public and political acceptance of investment in intercity rapid transit in general, potentially opening the door to more projects. Some could opt for conventional HSR technology, where Spain is a leader.
Are there any Spanish companies already involved in this specific project (Maryland Maglev)?
To date, there is no evidence of any major Spanish companies (construction, engineering, or manufacturing companies such as Talgo or CAF) being directly involved as principal partners or promoters in the current phase of the Northeast Maglev/Baltimore-Washington Rapid Rail project. The project has been strongly promoted by private US developers (Northeast Maglev) in close collaboration with Central Japan Railway Company (JR Central) and with potential financial support from the Japanese government.
However, this doesn't mean they're not paying attention. Major Spanish construction and engineering firms with a presence in the US constantly monitor major infrastructure projects. They're likely following the development of the Maglev project and will consider submitting bids for construction packages, especially civil works, if the project advances to the bidding phase. Their experience with complex rail projects in the US and globally would position them as strong candidates for these contracts.
In short, Governor Moore's mission to Japan not only seeks to strengthen economic and technological ties but also to position Maryland at the forefront of innovation and development. Meanwhile, businesses and leaders within and outside our borders are looking to where the next wave is blowing, knowing that any well-grounded passion could surprise us. The mission, combined with all its components, plays into our hands. The world is looking and taking new directions.
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