The Chinese “Advanced Rail Transit” programme aims at developing a series of ultra high speed trains. 30 Chinese Universities supported by German industries and universities are involved in developing these trains. The aim is to develop ultra-high-speed magnetic levitating (MagLev) trains which can reach speeds up to 600 Km/h.

The first prototype car, of a set of five vehicles to be built has been delivered by CRRC Qingdao Sifang. The vehicle was tested for stability and performance of its suspension on a 1.5 Km long track in the Tonghi University. Though the trials were conducted at speed way below 600 Km/h, the tests have been satisfactory. China aims to start commercial service using these trains between Shanghai and Hangzhou. It is expected that the trains would cover the 175 km distance in 20 minutes.

If successful, the line would be extended by another 150 Km to Ningbo. Presently, China operates the world’s fastest MagLev train which operates at a top speed of 430 Km/h. This train connects the Pudong International Airport to eastern suburbs of Shanghai. A distance of 31 Km. This line has been in use since 2003 using Germany’s TransRapid technology.

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