High-speed trains living up to their name

The CR450 high-speed train will be the fastest train in the world when it enters commercial service. Its two prototypes unveiled in Beijing on Sunday had a test speed of 450 kilometers per hour and an operational speed of 400 km/h.

The CR400, which is in service since 2017, has an operational speed of 350 km/h. The CR450's speed advantage comes with a number of other improved features, such as a braking system with a shorter response time, crucial for the safety of high-speed trains. After a series of trials and calculations, engineers have improved the CR450's braking response time from an initial 2.3 seconds to about 1.7 seconds.

The CR450 has carbon fiber composite materials, reducing its overall weight, which not only helps in enhancing speed but also significantly aids in energy consumption reduction. Thus, the CR450 balances technological empowerment for increased efficiency with a reduction in energy consumption.