China's new CR450 high-speed train reaches 281 mph and accelerates more quickly

China's new high-speed train recently reached 453 km/h (281 mph) in a test run, according to state-run China Central Television (CCTV). This marks an important step toward passenger service at 400 km/h (250 mph). Certification typically requires a buffer of about 10% above the planned service speed. 453 km/h (281 mph) is significantly higher.

This is a speed that German high-speed trains can only just reach in theory. A test train, operated by DB Systemtechnik, recently almost set a new record with a Velaro Novo intermediate car at 405 km/h (251 mph). However, wind conditions were unfavorable, so the train remained below the German record (406.9 km/h). As Siemens Mobility informed us, the Velaro Novo's powered bogie was not used in the test.

At 400 km/h (250 mph), the CR450 would be the fastest train in regular service. During its test run, the Transrapid, as a Shanghai Maglev Train, only reached 300 km/h. However, the Chinese train is still a long way from regular service, as certification requires many miles of test runs. According to CCTV, 600,000 kilometers (just under 373,000 miles) are planned for testing. The tests are to be conducted primarily between Chengdu and Chongqing next year. Only then would the CR450 be considered for use.

The new CR450 trains are also faster. According to CCTV, the CR450 train reaches 350 km/h (218 mph) in just 4:40 minutes. Its predecessor, the Fuxing train, needed 6:20 minutes. This makes the CR450 well-suited for train categories that require more frequent stops.

As well-informed Bluesky account JR Urbane Network reports in reference to Chinese sources, there are also rumors that China may be aiming for a world record with the new train. The previous record holder is a French TGV at just over 570 km/h (355 mph), which was achieved with power cars. The CR450, on the other hand, is a multiple unit with distributed traction. If a record-breaking run were to actually take place, a multiple unit train would then hold the record for the wheel-rail concept.