Editor’s Note
China’s new CR450 high-speed train prototype has achieved a record-breaking 896 km/h in trials, surpassing Japan’s maglev record. Designed for commercial service at 400 km/h, it is set to become the world’s fastest operational electric train, enhancing connectivity on key routes like Shanghai-Chengdu.
The world’s fastest high-speed train has made headlines by reaching a speed of 896 km/h during a trial run. China has built this train. Its codename is ‘CR450’. This train is designed to operate commercially at a speed of 400 km/h. It is 50 km/h faster than the existing CR400 Fuxing trains. It has broken the previous record of 603 km/h held by Japan’s experimental maglev train L0 series. It will connect the Shanghai and Chengdu routes. This engineering marvel is being called the world’s fastest electric multiple unit (EMU). It is currently undergoing operational evaluation. Before receiving approval for commercial passenger service, it must successfully complete a trial run of at least 600,000 kilometers. This information has been reported in media.
The China Academy of Railway Sciences has developed this train. The ‘CR450’ is in the final stage of trial testing. Its target is to achieve a speed of 400 km/h for commercial operation. This is an effort to leave older models behind. They operate at speeds of 350 km/h. This train has tremendous acceleration capabilities. The CR450 has achieved significant milestones. It can reach a speed of 350 km/h in just 4 minutes and 40 seconds. In contrast, the Fuxing EMU takes 6 minutes and 20 seconds to reach the same speed. This makes the CR450 100 seconds faster. Even though the older model is already one of the world’s fastest trains. However, this new version is making history.
Engineers have made significant changes and improvements to the train’s aerodynamics over a 5-year period. It drew inspiration from the shape of a hawk’s beak and arrows. The design of the CR450 is very special. Unlike its predecessor CR400 Fuxing trains, the CR450 is designed to operate at a commercial speed of 400 km/h, which is 50 km/h faster. CR400 Fuxing trains are currently in service. In the new model, the roof height has been reduced by 20 centimeters to reduce aerodynamic drag by approximately 22%. Weight has been reduced by 50 tons. Even though the new model has a higher speed. However, its energy consumption is the same as the CR400.
There are also some risks associated with the CR450 model. Chief Engineer Zhao Hongwei of the China Railway Academy told Science and Technology Daily:
He further stated:
Developers working on the CR450 model have developed a three-phase active short-circuit protection mechanism to mitigate this risk. This system is designed to prevent mechanical damage to the machinery in the event of a short circuit. It can detect a fault within 0.2 seconds. It redirects the current through a closed loop.
The new train is a major leap in China’s railway technology. It showcases innovation not only in terms of speed but also in design and safety. Its trial run has been successful. It may soon be ready to provide passengers with a fast and efficient travel experience. The train is a crucial part of China’s ambitious railway development plans. It establishes China as a leader in high-speed rail technology.
