China unveils prototype of new high-speed train poised to become world’s fastest

China has unveiled the prototype of its next-generation high-speed train, the CR450, which is on track to become the world’s fastest upon its commercial debut.

The cutting-edge train reached test speeds of up to 450 kilometers (281 miles) per hour, with an operational speed of 400 kilometers (248.5 miles) per hour, according to China’s Ministry of Transport, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

Developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and CRRC Sifang Co., Ltd., the CR450 will surpass China’s current CR400 model, which has been in service since 2017 with a top speed of 350 kilometers (217 miles) per hour. The CR450's groundbreaking speed, combined with impressive energy efficiency, noise reduction, and superior braking performance, marks a significant step forward in high-speed rail technology.

The train has undergone extensive testing, including more than 3,000 simulations and over 2,000 platform tests to ensure it meets the stringent demands of commercial operation. However, further line tests and refinements are required before it can be fully integrated into China’s vast railway network, according to the China State Railway Group.

Once in service, the CR450 is poised to revolutionize travel between major cities and rural regions, continuing China’s dominance in high-speed rail development. The country’s rail network spans over 160,000 kilometers, with more than 46,000 kilometers of high-speed lines, making it the largest such network in the world.

The CR450’s unveiling underscores China’s ambition to push the boundaries of rail technology and solidify its position as the global leader in high-speed rail innovation, competing with the pioneering efforts of Japan’s Shinkansen and France’s TGV.

As high-speed rail remains an attractive alternative to air travel for journeys up to 700 miles, China’s new CR450 could redefine long-distance travel and set new global standards for high-speed trains.

By Khagan Isayev