VC-PERTS understands the potential benefits of magnetic levitation and it is committed to research and development to make the technology more practical, more reliable, and less expensive. In just three months during the Spring 1998 semester, VC-PERTS was able to design, build, and demonstrate a novel 16-foot long computer controlled vehicle/track test-bed for a new high efficiency, low cost Linear Switched Reluctance Propulsion System (LSRP). This system represents an energy efficient alternative for linear propulsion with low cost materials, redundant backup systems, non-distributed windings, and the robust fault tolerance required for demanding industrial applications. On April 29, 1998, a triumphant consortium of design teams held a public demonstration of the working prototype.
     Building on the excitement of the LSRP demonstration, the teams continued that legacy of achievement. In late 1999, VC-PERTS completed its next generation of the magnetic levitation model, Phase Two. In the new Phase Two Prototype, the dual translator LSRP propulsion system and levitation and guidance electromagnets are aboard the vehicle and the track is completely passive.
     After the completion of Phase 2, the idea of the PERTS project was proved. However, it was noted that their was a high level of noise pollution for Phase 2. As the Phase 2 product moved up and down the passive track, their was a loud and distinct hum that was not necessary. Also, the Phase 2 prototype showed how the magnetic levitation would work, but did not prove this for enourmous amounts of weight - such as a passenger and there car. So, the creation of a efficient design of Phase 2 was started. Phase 3 was compeleted in the summer of 2001. Phase 3 demonstrates the concepts of Phase 2, but eliminated the unnecessary noise pollution. Phase 3 also showed the PERTS project more feasible. Phase 3 demonstrated that enourmous amounts of weight could also levitate for this maglev system.