Japan's maglev, fastest train in world, breaks own speed record at 603 kph (375 mph)

TOKYO - A Japanese maglev that is the fastest passenger train in the world has broken its own speed record.

Operator JR Central said the train reached 603 kilometres per hour (375 miles per hour) in a test run on Tuesday, surpassing its previous record of 361 mph (581 kph) set in 2003. The train travelled for just over a mile (1.8 kilometres) at a speed exceeding 600 kph (373 mph).

Japan's high-speed rail services are among the most advanced in the world, with hundreds of trains running each day with minimal delays.

The Maglev Test Line, near Mount Fuji about 80 kilometres (50 miles) west of Tokyo, is developing technology for use on a future link between Tokyo and Osaka. The magnetic levitation trains hover above rails, suspended by powerful magnets.