China showcases the fastest high-speed train in the new world

They’re moving towards a faster future in China, thanks to a new model of high-speed train. Over the weekend, state-owned railway company China State Railway Group unveiled a prototype of its CR450 train, which it claims will be the world’s fastest high-speed commercial train car.

As reported by the South China Morning Post, the CR450 will be able to reach top speeds of up to 280 mph (450 km/h) and will have a maximum commercial operating speed of 250 mph (400 km/h). For comparison’s sake, the state’s rail operator’s current CR400 trains run at about 220 mph (350 km/h). The CR450 will be able to complete the 700-mile flight from Beijing to Shanghai in about 2.5 hours, according to the state-owned news organization. yikai global.

While the CR450 is still in the prototype stage, producing a train capable of reaching those top speeds is a technological and engineering feat. According to A Press release from the Chinese governmentthe CR450 will weigh 10% less than its predecessors and will reduce operating resistance – the force needed to move the train – by 22%. The train housing—the tire covering the wheels—can reduce air resistance at higher speeds, and the “low-drag, sharp front end” and aerodynamic windshield help the CR450 maintain its peak acceleration.

As impressive as the CR450 is, there is a difference between being able to achieve certain speeds and actually achieving them. TGV train in France He hit 357.2 mph back in 2007which remains a record for passenger trains with conventional wheels. But in practice, the average TGV speed is about 175 mph. China already runs the world’s fastest commercial trains, with many routes He routinely hit 217 mph. But to push those top speeds even higher, it requires making sure the tracks are properly aligned to support them.

According to infrastructure consulting firm AECOMThe faster the train travels, the greater the curve radius is needed to ensure the car can turn safely without having to slow down significantly or be in serious danger. This radius becomes exponentially larger the faster you move. According to AECOM, a train traveling at 224 mph requires a curve radius of about 6.2 miles to maintain speed. Raise that speed to 250 mph, and you’ll need 7 miles to track down the bank without needing to refuel at top speeds.

The Chinese government says the CR450 will be in operation.”as soon as possibleMeanwhile, Californians are still waiting for a high-speed rail project – which has been nearly two decades since it was first approved – to produce its first operational passenger service. Hopefully, the trains will be faster than construction.