Maglev (from magnetic levitation) is a system of train transportation that uses two sets of magnets: one set to repel and push the train up off the track, and another set to move the elevated train ahead, taking advantage of the lack of friction. Along certain "medium-range" routes (usually 320 to 640 km), maglev can compete favourably with high-speed rail and airplanes.

With maglev technology, the train travels along a guideway of magnets which control the train's stability and speed.

Despite over a century of research and development, maglev transport systems are now operational in just three countries (Japan, South Korea and China). The incremental benefits of maglev technology have often been considered hard to justify against cost and risk, especially where there is an existing or proposed conventional high-speed train line with spare passenger carrying capacity, as in high-speed rail in Europe.

A route was planned between Berlin and Hamburg in Germany, so an Australian phonecard set was issued in 1997. Here is the souvenir pack, a limited edition of just 1,500, with both of the phonecards showing the "Transrapid" Europe train.

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