China testing world’s fastest high-speed train in Beijing

China is type testing prototypes of the world’s fastest high-speed train, the CR450, on Beijing’s ring railways for future commercial services.

According to a local news source on 6 March, the train with a test speed of up to 450 km per hour and an operational speed of 400 km per hour debuted in Beijing on Dec. 30, 2024. 

The fastest yet

At an operational speed of 400 km per hour, the CR450 is the fastest train yet, beating the CR400 Fuxing high-speed trains currently in service, which operate at a speed of 350 kilometers.

According to the train manufacturer, the train represents an upgrade in all areas of high-speed trains, including technology, equipment, standards, and operational management.

Wang Feng, vice president of the train producer, CRRC Corporation Limited said engineers upgraded traction capacity, dynamic performance, and pantograph systems to reach the unprecedented operational speed of 400 km per hour.

Feng further explained that a water-cooled permanent magnet traction system, a new-generation high-stability bogie, and multi-system innovations sustain its high-speed operations.

In terms of safety, the train has multi-level emergency braking control technology and over 4,000 onboard monitoring sensors.

The sensors track key systems including running gears, car body, high-voltage pantographs, train control and fire detection systems, in real time. 

It also has an over-the-horizon system that recognizes track emergencies to prevent accidents. The train is also designed to cut energy waste by reducing air resistance and using lightweight materials. 

Similarly, noise is significantly reduced with seven innovative technologies, including sound-absorbing materials and optimized aerodynamic shapes.

Pioneering technology

China has been leading in several aspects of technology recently. Just this week, it was revealed that the country was building a large fourth-generation aircraft carrier for its navy.

Also through its advancement in space technology, China is offering the world remote sensing services from its constellations.