A primary for a linear induction motor having a core, electrical winding coils and a cooling system. The core extends longitudinally and has slots extending laterally in a first face thereof. Electrical winding coils inserted in the slots have end turns that extend laterally beyond each side of the core. The electrical winding coils are aligned sequentially along a length of the core. The cooling system, which is adapted to receive a cooling fluid, includes a serpentine tubing assembly and two lateral tubes. The serpentine tubing assembly is at least partially in contact with the core so as to transfer heat from the core to the environment. Each one of the two lateral tubes extend longitudinally along a different side of the core and within a respective longitudinal alignment of the end turns of the electrical winding coils.