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Takara Tomy’s Linear Liner is a working magnetic-levitation toy train, but it does not physically travel at 500 km/h. The company’s 500 km/h figure is a scale-speed comparison based on the toy’s size relative to its full-size L0-series counterpart. The 2015 set pairs that effect with magnetic propulsion, a four-car train and a large scenic track layout.
Is the Linear Liner really a maglev train?
Yes—in the sense that the toy uses magnetic levitation and magnetic propulsion rather than ordinary wheels and a rotating motor to move around its track. Takara Tomy says magnets and coils in the vehicle interact with magnets in the rails, letting the train float above the track and travel without contact. The company describes it as a “floating and running” linear motor car. Takara Tomy’s 2015 product release and its 2016 annual report explain the technology.
Takara Tomy called it the “world’s first mass-produced miniature linear motor car” to combine magnetic levitation and magnetic travel. The product release qualifies that claim as “according to our research,” so it is best understood as the manufacturer’s description, not an independently verified industry record.
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What does the 500 km/h speed mean?
The 500 km/h figure is a scale-speed claim, not the toy’s actual speed across a table or floor. Takara Tomy compares the vehicle’s 32 mm width with that of the full-size L0-series vehicle, using an approximate 1/90 scale to express the miniature’s speed in full-size terms. The company attached this figure to the product in 2015; it should not be read as a measured physical speed of 500 km/h. Takara Tomy’s release gives the comparison.
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- JR West consent already
- The main manufacturing Country: Thailand
- Target Gender: Boys From 3 years of age: Age
- Battery: use
- Battery type: Use two batteries AA batteries, please purchase separately for the sold separately.
What comes in the Linear Liner set?
The Superconductive Linear L0 Series Special Set launched in September 2015 with a suggested retail price of ¥35,000 before tax. Takara Tomy’s product specifications list these contents:
- One four-car train
- One control station that also serves as a charger
- Six straight rails, eight curved rails and two half rails
- 18 piers
- Straight and curved tunnel pieces, plus an overpass
- Takara Tomy AC adapter TYPE5U and an instruction manual
The train measures 251 × 26 × 32 mm. The scenic layout measures 1,928 × 848 mm, so allow for a footprint close to two metres wide. The set is recommended for ages 8 and up. These specifications and launch details are from Takara Tomy’s 2015 product release.
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- There are many basic type of rails in the product in the rail set can 10 different layout
- It can be assembled in over 10 different layouts by only the set of rails
How is it powered and set up?
The control station charges the train. Power for the set can come from ten AA alkaline batteries, which are sold separately, or from the supplied AC adapter. Build the track and scenic supports using the included rails, piers, tunnels and overpass, then use the control station as directed in the manual. The listed layout dimensions describe the arrangement with scenery; check your available surface against that footprint before setting it up.
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| What to compare | Linear Liner | Ordinary rail toy or model train |
|---|---|---|
| Propulsion | Magnetic levitation and magnetic propulsion; Takara Tomy describes travel without the usual rotating motor, wheels and gears. | Typically uses wheels and a motor or gears; configurations vary by product. |
| Speed figure | 500 km/h is Takara Tomy’s approximate scale-speed comparison, not physical speed. | Usually discussed as actual model speed or operating speed; figures depend on the specific train. |
| Space | Official scenic layout: 1,928 × 848 mm. | Varies by track plan and product. |
| Train identity | L0-series styling; the 2015 release credits JR Central approval. | Varies by model and licensing. |
Can you still buy the Linear Liner L0 set?
The set’s documented launch was in 2015, but that fact alone does not establish whether it is currently in production or available from retailers. Current stock, seller, condition, shipping destination and price require checking with individual retailers or second-hand marketplaces. Treat listings as collectible or used unless the seller clearly documents otherwise, and verify that the control station, adapter, train and track pieces are included.
Quick Recap
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- Body size: 225 x 8 x 98 (mm)
- Safety standards: ST mark
- Major countries of manufacture: Thailand
- Subject gender: Boys
- Target age: From age 3
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- Package Size (W x H x D): 9.4 x 7.1 x 3.1 inches (240 x 1
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- Business sale (original Plarail)
- Origin : KEIO LINER Hashimoto
- 3-car construction allows you to connect and separate each
- Requires 1 AA battery (sold separately). Rail sold separately
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
