Future Train – This Parallax Film Productions documentary aired in all National Geographic global markets, except the U.S. (the producers say it was because NG said they could not line up any sponsors). While the film does tend to sensationalize the unfortunate September 2006 crash at the German maglev test facility (which was later discovered to be the result of human error – the failure of two controllers to observe proper operational protocol), the crash should in no way be construed as an indictment of the technology.
Indeed, in spite of the 120 mph (200 km/h) impact with a 50-ton maintenance vehicle, the three 50-ton maglev vehicles did not derail or explode, although the first vehicle’s passenger compartment (not its guideway-bound chassis) was mostly crushed. Even more amazing was the discovery, after this film was produced, that the maglev guideway was not in any way damaged.