How did the Murian 'corials' (vehicles) achieve their movement and levitation?

The Murian 'corials' (vehicles) achieved their movement and levitation through the utilization of atomic energy[1]. This energy was generated by ions darting from a whirling ball through a cylinder to two bands of a peculiar metal affixed to the vehicle's base[1].

When these ions impinged upon the metal bands, they produced a partial negation of gravity, lifting the shell slightly above the road, and simultaneously created a powerful repulsive force or thrust that could be directed by the driver[1].

Space: The Moon Pool by A. Merritt