Abstract: Disclosed is a single, integrated linear synchronous unipolar motor having high-energy permanent magnets operable along a substantially linear demagnetization curve and a polyphase coil. Collectively, the permanent magnets and polyphase coil provide for propulsion, suspension, braking and lateral control of a vehicle along a passive reaction rail. The permanent magnets provide the primary force for suspending the vehicle from the guideway, with a DC field control coil controlling the suspension gap between the vehicle and the reaction rail. The polyphase coil propels the vehicle along the track at a speed dependent upon the voltage and frequency of the supplied signal. The motor exhibits a high power factor and efficiency factor, resulting in a motor that can be operated from a power source having a lower KVA rating than that required for previous linear motor arrangements and that can be used in concert with a low-cost, passive guideway.