China Unveils Swiftest Global High-Speed Rail Service
They're zooming towards a quicker future in China, thanks to a fresh type of high-speed bullet train. Over the weekend, state-owned rail operator China State Railway Group introduced a prototype for its CR450 train, touting it as the swiftest commercial high-speed railcar worldwide.
As per the South China Morning Post, the CR450 can reach maximum speeds of up to 280mph (450km/h) and will operate commercially at 250mph (400km/h). In comparison, China's current CR400 trains operate at approximately 220mph (350km/h). The CR450 is expected to finish the 700-mile journey from Beijing to Shanghai in roughly 2.5 hours, as claimed by state-owned news organization Yicai Global.
©This snapshot shows the driver's cabin of the CR450BF bullet train in Beijing, China's capital, Dec. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
Despite being at the prototype stage, crafting a train capable of such high speeds is a remarkable technical and engineering feat. According to a statement from the Chinese government, the CR450 will be 10% lighter than its precedents and will lower operational resistance—the force required to propel the train—by 22%. The train's bogie enclosure—the covered structure supporting the wheels—reduces air resistance at speedier velocities, while a "low-dragon, pointed-nosed front" and aerodynamic windshields help the CR450 preserve its peak acceleration. Although impressive, the CR450's potential is vastly different from its actual ability to reach those speeds. France's TGV train hit 357.2 mph in 2007, which remains the fastest speed recorded for conventional wheeled passenger trains. However, in practice, the TGV typically averages speeds of around 175mph. China already operates the fastest commercial trains globally, with several routes routinely hitting 217mph. But to boost those top speeds further, it requires fine-tuning the tracks to support it.
©This snapshot shows an interior view of the economy-class carriage of the CR450AF bullet train in Beijing, China's capital, Dec. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
In an interview with an infrastructure consulting firm AECOM, the quicker a train goes, the greater curve radius is needed to ensure it can safely navigate turns without needing to slow down or face potential danger. That curve radius becomes increasingly extensive as the speed increases. Per AECOM, a train going 224mph needs a curve radius of approximately 6.2 miles to maintain speed. By increasing the speed to 250mph, you'll need a 7-mile radius to navigate the curve safely without losing speed or facing danger. The Chinese government claims the CR450 will be in operation "as soon as feasible." Meanwhile, Californians are still eagerly awaiting the completion of its high-speed rail project—now nearly two decades after its initial approval—to launch its first operational passenger service. Here's hoping the trains will be faster than the construction.
©This snapshot shows an interior view of a business-class carriage of the CR450BF bullet train in Beijing, China's capital, Dec. 29, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]
The advancement in tech and technology is evident in the CR450 bullet train, as it aims to become the swiftest commercial high-speed railcar globally. The Chinese government's goal is to have the CR450 in operation as soon as feasible, showcasing their commitment to the future of tech-driven transportation.
