China has successfully conducted a trial of its next-generation bullet train, the ‘CR450’, which clocked a jaw-dropping 450 km/hr during a recent test.
Although Japan’s L0 Series Maglev holds the top spot for the fastest train at 603 km/hr, China’s latest breakthrough shows the country is inching towards the 500 km/hr mark as well.
The CR450 is expected to operate on the Shanghai–Chengdu high-speed corridor, linking two of China’s most significant economic and cultural hubs. However, before passengers can board, the train must complete 6,00,000 km of rigorous testing to ensure safety and reliability.
As per Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, the project is currently in its final round of engineering inspections and safety certifications, paving the way for commercial deployment in the coming years.
While the CR450 hit 450 km/hr in test conditions, it will cruise at a commercial speed of 400 km/hr, about 50 km/hr faster than China’s existing CR400 ‘Fuxing’ trains.
One of its most impressive capabilities is acceleration. The CR450 can reach 350 km/hr in just 4 minutes and 40 seconds, whereas the current Fuxing trains take 6 minutes and 20 seconds, making the new train 100 seconds faster, reports said.
This leap is credited to its aerodynamic design, inspired by the beak of a falcon and the sleek form of an arrow, helping the train slice through air with minimal resistance. The CR450 boasts 22% reduction in air drag compared to existing models. Apart from that, the roof has been lowered by 20 cm for enhanced stability.
The other features include a lightweight body with improved aerodynamics and energy efficiency. The development process, spanning five years, brought together top engineers, cutting-edge materials, and extensive wind-tunnel testing to perfect its performance.
However, operating at such high speeds poses serious safety concerns. According to reports, Zhao Hongwei, Chief Engineer at the China Railway Academy, explained that if an electric motor experiences a short circuit, magnetic forces can prevent it from shutting down, increasing the risk of accidents.
Engineers have introduced advanced control systems and magnetic safety measures to address such risks, ensuring the CR450 can operate securely even at unprecedented speeds.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
