Breakthrough Research Award
Santiago Antúnez
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain
| Santiago Antúnez |
| Affiliation |
Universidad Politécnica de Madrid |
| Country |
Spain |
| Scopus ID |
59939203500 |
| Documents |
1 |
| Citations |
2 |
| h-index |
1 |
| Subject Area |
Engineering |
| Event |
Computer Scientists Awards |
Santiago Antúnez is an engineering researcher affiliated with Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and a contributing author to research on hybrid magnetic-levitation transportation. His documented research contribution concerns the development and assessment of Maglev-Derived Systems designed to improve railway performance while retaining compatibility with existing infrastructure. The associated 2025 study was published in Sustainability, volume 17, article 5056. [1]
Abstract
The research examines a hybrid Maglev-Derived System (MDS) intended to combine magnetic-levitation principles with existing railway infrastructure. The study considers propulsion through Linear Synchronous Motors, magnetic levitation and guidance, and the use of virtually coupled passenger pods. Its central objective is to investigate whether railway capacity and journey times can be improved while maintaining comparatively efficient energy use and limiting major infrastructure reconstruction. [1]
Keywords
Maglev; Maglev-Derived Systems; hybrid transportation; railway engineering; magnetic levitation; Linear Synchronous Motor; virtual coupling; sustainable transportation; railway interoperability.
Introduction
Conventional high-speed maglev systems generally depend on dedicated infrastructure, creating substantial barriers where established railway networks already occupy valuable corridors. The reported research addresses this limitation by examining a hybrid configuration capable of operating on conventional railway infrastructure with appropriate adaptations. The work forms part of the MaDe4Rail research context supported through Europe’s Rail Joint Undertaking. [2]
Research Profile
The supplied bibliometric profile records one Scopus-indexed document, two citations, and an h-index of one. These figures represent a limited but identifiable publication record and should be interpreted as a current bibliometric snapshot rather than a comprehensive measure of research quality. The published article identifies Santiago Antunez among the research team and associates the work with Universidad Politécnica de Madrid. [3]
Research Contributions
The principal contribution associated with Antúnez is participation in research evaluating a hybrid MDS architecture. The proposed system combines magnetic levitation with railway interoperability, allowing MDS vehicles and conventional rolling stock to potentially share established corridors. The study evaluates virtual coupling of individual passenger pods and considers propulsion, levitation, guidance, signalling compatibility, travel performance and energy consumption. [1]
Publications
- Felez, J.; Vaquero-Serrano, M.A.; Portillo, D.; Antunez, S.; et al. “A New Concept of Hybrid Maglev-Derived Systems for Faster and More Efficient Rail Services Compatible with Existing Infrastructure.” Sustainability, 17(11), 5056, 2025. [1]
Research Impact
The study contributes to sustainable transportation research by examining how maglev-derived technology might improve existing railway services without requiring an entirely separate railway corridor. The published simulations investigate reductions in journey time and energy consumption through operational optimisation and aerodynamic considerations. The article also reports an initial cost–benefit assessment indicating potential economic advantages for European railway applications. [1]
Award Suitability
For recognition under the Breakthrough Research Award category, the documented work provides a relevant engineering research basis through its focus on railway innovation, interoperability and sustainable transport systems. The contribution is particularly aligned with research themes involving advanced mobility infrastructure and the practical adaptation of emerging technologies to established transport networks. This assessment is based on the documented publication and the supplied researcher profile rather than on a broader claim of career-wide achievement. [1]
Conclusion
Santiago Antúnez’s documented contribution to hybrid Maglev-Derived Systems represents participation in research addressing the engineering challenge of integrating advanced magnetic-levitation concepts with existing railway infrastructure. The associated publication provides a substantive technical basis for considering faster, interoperable and potentially more efficient rail services. [1]
External Links
References
- Felez, J.; Vaquero-Serrano, M.A.; Portillo, D.; Antunez, S.; et al. (2025). A New Concept of Hybrid Maglev-Derived Systems for Faster and More Efficient Rail Services Compatible with Existing Infrastructure. Sustainability, 17(11), 5056.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su17115056
- European Commission. Maglev-Derived Systems for Rail — MaDe4Rail Project Results. CORDIS.
- Polytechnic University of Madrid. Scientific record: A New Concept of Hybrid Maglev-Derived Systems for Faster and More Efficient Rail Services Compatible with Existing Infrastructure.
- Felez, J.; Vaquero-Serrano, M.A.; Portillo, D.; et al. (2025). A New Concept of Hybrid Maglev-Derived Systems for Faster and More Efficient Rail Services Compatible with Existing Infrastructure. Preprints.org, Version 1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202504.1002.v1
- MDPI. Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 5056 — Article Version Notes.
- Archivo Digital UPM. A New Concept of Hybrid Maglev-Derived Systems for Faster and More Efficient Rail Services Compatible with Existing Infrastructure.
https://oa.upm.es/95268/