China's CR450: A new era of high-speed rail at 400 km/h

The CR450 high-speed train prototype, unveiled in Beijing on Sunday, is capable of reaching a test speed of 450 km/h and an operational speed of 400 km/h. This achievement makes it the fastest high-speed train in the world once it enters commercial service, surpassing China's current CR400, which operates at 350 km/h.

According to China State Railway Group, which led the development, the CR450 excels in key areas such as operational speed, energy efficiency, noise control, and braking performance, setting new global benchmarks. Despite its higher speed, the CR450 maintains braking distances similar to those of trains running at 350 km/h—thanks to significant engineering advancements. These design enhancements ensure the train's stability, performance, and safety at higher speeds.

The CR450 prioritizes passenger comfort, offering a smooth and quiet ride even at 400 km/h. Advanced noise-reduction technologies ensure that interior noise levels are comparable to those of 350 km/h trains, providing a peaceful travel experience.

A standout feature of the CR450 is its exceptional energy efficiency. The train has reduced running resistance by 22 percent and cut its weight by 10 percent, improving fuel efficiency. Despite the increased speed, these optimizations minimize energy consumption, ensuring sustainability at higher operational speeds.

The train's interior has been redesigned for added comfort and convenience, increasing cabin space by 4 percent. Adjustable luggage racks and a versatile storage area accommodate passenger needs, including bicycles, wheelchairs, and other items. These innovations anticipate potential regulatory changes in passenger transport.

The CR450 prototype was developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and CRRC Sifang Co., Ltd., each contributing slightly different interior designs but with a shared focus on passenger comfort and high-quality travel experiences.

The development of the CR450 is the culmination of years of research and technological innovation, which began in 2018 with the goal of operating trains at 400 km/h. Extensive testing has been conducted across major high-speed rail lines, including Zhengzhou-Wanzhou, Jinan-Zhengzhou, Mile-Mengzi, and Fuzhou-Xiamen. Over 200 days of high-speed testing and 17 component trials have been completed, with a cumulative test distance exceeding 200,000 kilometers. The prototype has undergone more than 3,000 simulations and over 2,000 platform tests to meet the rigorous demands of 400 km/h operations.

China State Railway Group has announced that further line tests and refinements will ensure the train meets all necessary standards for commercial operation. The goal is to make this cutting-edge technology available to passengers soon.

Li Yongheng, an official from China State Railway Group, stated that since 2012, China's railway sector has independently developed a series of scientific and technological innovation products, exemplified by the Fuxing high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU). This development has established a comprehensive high-speed rail (HSR) technology system encompassing engineering construction, equipment manufacturing, and operations management.

"China's high-speed railway system has taken a historic leap, shifting from a follower to a global leader. Its HSR technology has set an international benchmark," Li said.

"To further consolidate and boost China's leading edge in HSR technology, and better serve and support Chinese modernization, our company, along with relevant ministries, organizations, research institutes, universities, and enterprises, has formed an innovative team to tackle key technological challenges," he added.

Zhao Hongwei, chief researcher at the China Academy of Railway Sciences, highlighted the technological breakthroughs of the CR450 EMU, including advancements in high-speed safety, resistance reduction, energy efficiency, vibration and noise reduction, and intelligent fusion control technologies. These innovations have established a comprehensive technical framework for the 400 km/h high-speed train, setting a new standard in global rail transport.

Wang Wenjing, a professor at the School of Mechanical, Electrical and Control Engineering at Beijing Jiaotong University, discussed the challenge of achieving a lightweight design that balances speed and energy efficiency. The BJTU team focused on optimizing load-bearing components, especially the bogie and car body, through simulations and bench tests. Advanced materials like carbon fiber were incorporated to reduce weight while maintaining strength, ensuring safety and durability at high speeds.

Sui Fusheng, a researcher at the Institute of Acoustics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, emphasized the complexity of balancing weight reduction with noise control. The team developed integrated composite materials that provide both thermal insulation and soundproofing. These innovations reduce material costs and complexity while improving passenger comfort by controlling temperature and noise levels. Despite the challenges, the team's solutions have set the stage for quieter, more efficient high-speed rail travel.

The CR450 EMU exemplifies China's innovation-driven development strategy and demonstrates the country's scientific and technological capabilities. It reflects the advantages of China's socialist system, fostering self-reliance in railway science and technology and contributing to the modernization of the railway industrial system.

Over the past 15 years, China has built the world's largest and most advanced high-speed rail network, spanning over 160,000 kilometers, including more than 46,000 kilometers of high-speed rail lines.