A magnetic levitation vehicle has at least one magnetic arrangement (27). The magnetic arrangement (27) contains a plurality of magnetic poles (27a . . . 27n) which are arranged one behind the other in the direction of travel and comprise windings (33) associated therewith. The magnetic levitation vehicle is also provided with a circuit for supplying the windings (33) with a direct current, said circuit containing switches for selectively switching the magnetic arrangement between a guiding function and/or a braking function.