Latest update:
China has made a huge leap in high-speed rail technology, putting itself ahead of global competitors and redefining the future of train travel.
The CR450 will be run on the Shanghai-Chengdu corridor after 600,000 kilometers of testing. (X/@ChineseEmbinUS)
China has once again showcased its technological prowess in the field of high-speed rail by successfully testing the world’s fastest train, the CR450. During the trial run, the train achieved an amazing speed of 896 kilometers per hour, breaking all previous world records.
Earlier, Japan’s L0 Series Maglev train set the record at a speed of 603 km/h. With this latest achievement, China has come a long way in the high-speed rail travel race.
Where will the train go?
China plans to run the CR450 train on the Shanghai-Chengdu high-speed rail corridor, linking two of its most important cities. However, commercial service will begin only after the train successfully completes 600,000 kilometers of testing.
According to Chinese state media CGTN, engineering inspections and safety approvals are currently in their final stages.
How fast is regular service?
Although it achieved a speed of 896 km/h in trials, the CR450 was designed to operate at a commercial speed of 400 km/h. This is 50 km/h faster than the country’s existing CR400 “Fuxing” trains.
One of its notable features is its fast acceleration. The CR450 can reach 350 km/h in just 4 minutes and 40 seconds, while existing Fuxing trains take 6 minutes and 20 seconds, making the new train 100 seconds faster.
Watch the video:
Aerodynamic design for higher speed and efficiency
The train’s design is inspired by a hawk’s beak and an arrow to reduce air resistance. Key features include:
- 22% less air drag compared to current high-speed trains
- The ceiling was lowered by 20 cm
- Slim and lightweight body
- Improved aerodynamics for better speed and lower energy consumption
The CR450 took five years to develop, combining advanced materials, engineering and wind tunnel testing to achieve this feat.
How did China ensure safety at such high speeds?
Running at these extreme speeds brings significant safety challenges. According to Zhao Hongwei, chief engineer at the China Railway Academy, if an electric motor experiences a short circuit, magnetic forces can prevent it from stopping, increasing the risk of accidents.
To solve this problem, engineers introduced a three-level active short circuit protection system, which is:
- Detects errors in just 0.2 seconds
- Cut off the power immediately
- It redirects electrical current into a closed safety loop, preventing damage and ensuring occupant safety
With the CR450, China has made a major leap in high-speed rail technology, putting itself ahead of global competitors and redefining the future of train travel.
25 October 2025, 6:14 PM IST
Read more
