We reported a few weeks back that China is developing ‘floating trains’ – yes, floating – that could transport passengers faster than planes, but it’s still a good decade until we actually get to ride on them. Excitingly, though, another rail travel development has been announced.
Train nerds, take note: the CR450 train model, which was unveiled on December 29 in Beijing, is a brand new high-speed train set to be the fastest in the world.
It’s been manufactured by CRRC and will be operated by China Railway High-speed, and in tests, the train reached a maximum speed of 435 km/h – though when it operates commercially, that will be at around 400 km/h.
Another Chinese train is currently the record holder for the world’s fastest – the CR400 Fuxing high-speed train – but it operates at a soon-to-be-surpassed speed of 350km/h. So, how come the CR450 can move so much faster?
Well, according to Railway News, that’s because of improvements in traction systems, lightweight materials and ‘optimised aerodynamic structures’.
There are actually two train models in the series: the CR450AF has an arrow-headed front designed to reduce wind resistance, and the CR450BF features silver paint and a red stripe to enhance its visibility.
To get even more techy, the trains feature other enhancements like advanced noise reduction technology and monitoring systems, as well as next-gen braking systems to ensure journeys, even at those crazy high speeds, are safe.
All aboard
China might be zooming ahead with its railway developments right now, but Europe also has loads of new train services launching this year – check out our favourites here.
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