Nation's rail network continued to break records in 2024

Next generation

On Dec 29, China unveiled two CR450 high-speed train prototypes, which are capable of reaching a test speed of 450 km/h and an operational speed of 400 km/h. They will be the fastest high-speed trains in the world once they enter commercial service, surpassing China's current CR400, which operates at 350 km/h.

It was one of the most exciting developments in the railway sector in 2024. This leap in speed and comfort reflects China's ongoing leadership in high-speed rail technology.

The two prototypes, with their futuristic design, have reduced weight by 10 percent to improve fuel efficiency. To decrease rolling resistance, the development team wrapped the trains' running gear — such as the wheels, axles and suspension system — partly, marking a breakthrough in railway engineering.

The interiors of the prototypes are also cutting-edge. In business class, the seats can be adjusted to a meeting mode, allowing them to be arranged face-to-face, transforming the compartment into a conference room at any time.

In economy class, the seats are ergonomically designed for greater comfort, with curves that better suit the body. In response to passenger smartphone use, small tables in economy class now feature a rack that enables passengers to prop up their phones to watch videos.

Inside the train, lighting adjusts automatically in response to the brightness outside, enhancing passenger comfort. The luggage storage areas have also been made more spacious, reducing congestion. The interior has been redesigned for greater comfort and convenience, increasing cabin space by 4 percent. Adjustable luggage racks and versatile storage areas can accommodate passengers' needs, including bicycles, wheelchairs and other large items. These upgrades anticipate potential regulatory changes in passenger transport.

Sui Fusheng, a researcher at the Institute of Acoustics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlighted the challenge of balancing weight reduction with noise control. He led a team dedicated to optimizing the noise management for the prototypes.

"To reduce weight is detrimental to noise control, and increasing speed also exacerbates noise, so we have to overcome these two critical factors to ensure a comfortable passenger experience," he said.

"The results have been good; the ride experience is similar to that of the current CR400 running at 350 km/h," he added.

To balance noise control and weight reduction, the team developed integrated composite materials that offer both thermal insulation and soundproofing. These innovations not only reduce material costs and complexity but also enhance passenger comfort by effectively managing temperature and noise levels.

The team's solutions have laid the groundwork for quieter, more efficient high-speed rail travel, Sui added.

"China's high-speed rail system has made a historic leap, evolving from a follower to a global leader. Its high-speed rail technology has now set an international benchmark," said Li Yongheng, an official from China State Railway Group, referring to the development of the CR450.

"To further strengthen and expand China's leadership in high-speed rail technology, and to better support Chinese modernization, our company, together with relevant ministries, organizations, research institutes, universities and enterprises, has formed an innovative team to tackle critical technological challenges," he added.

The CR450 represents the culmination of years of innovation in high-speed rail, making it a fitting symbol of China's railway sector in 2024 — a year marked by groundbreaking achievements, record-breaking passenger and freight volumes, and a continually expanding network that links China to the rest of the world.