An electromagnetic system for a magnetic levitation vehicle comprises a "W" shaped magnet core having a center pole wound by a superconducting coil and side poles on opposite sides of the center pole, each wound by an ambient temperature coil. Quasi-dc power is supplied to the central superconducting coil for levitation of the vehicle with respect to a rail along which the vehicle is meant to move. The ambient temperature coils are connected in series to each and other and powered with ac power for trimming and controlling the gap between the magnet and the rail.