A subsidiary of China’s leading train manufacturer, CRRC, has unveiled a groundbreaking railway bogie designed for high-speed trains capable of running at 400 kilometers per hour. The announcement marks a significant advancement in China’s high-speed rail technology, promising faster, greener, and more efficient trains for the future.
The new built-in bogie is 20 percent lighter than standard externally mounted models. According to CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles Co., Ltd., the manufacturer, this innovative design reduces a train’s operational energy consumption by 15 percent and lessens wheel-rail wear by about 30 percent. Moreover, it is expected to lower maintenance costs of both lines and bogies by 15 percent throughout their life cycle, making electrical multiple unit (EMU) trains more environmentally friendly and cost-effective.
Railway bogies are essential components of trains, supporting the vehicle’s weight, guiding it along the tracks, and cushioning against shocks during motion. “The bogie is one of the key technologies needed for high-speed trains to run fast. It’s like their ‘legs’,” said Zhou Dianmai, a senior engineer at the company. “Trains equipped with these new bogies can run faster, more steadily, and more quietly.”
Though designed for speeds of 400 kilometers per hour, the new bogies have been tested to operate at maximum speeds of 600 kilometers per hour on a test bench model, showcasing their robust performance capabilities.
This development not only enhances the performance of high-speed trains but also aligns with global trends toward sustainable and efficient transportation. As China’s rail industry continues to innovate, the introduction of these advanced bogies signals a commitment to leading the future of high-speed rail travel.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
