An experimental bullet train in China broke its own world record for acceleration, going from zero to 800km an hour in about five seconds, potentially paving the way for ultra-high-speed transportation.

The maglev train accelerated to 800km an hour from rest in just 5.3 seconds on a 1km test-track at the Donghu Laboratory in the Hubei province.

Maglev trains use magnetic force to lift the entire train slightly above the tracks, removing associated friction, while a magnetic wave generated by coils around the tracks drives the vehicle forward.

So, is this the future for rail transportation, and will we ever see it in Ireland?

Joining Seán to discuss is Associate Professor in the UCD School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Dr Paul Cuffe.