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China Railway CR400AF
View on Wikipedia| China Railway CR400AF | |
|---|---|
CR400AF-2031 departing from depot at Shoupakou, Beijing as G66 | |
| Stock type | Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) |
| In service |
|
| Manufacturer | CRRC Qingdao Sifang |
| Designer | |
| Family name | Fuxing |
| Replaced | CRH2C, CRH3C, CRH380A, CRH380B |
| Formation |
|
| Operators | |
| Specifications | |
| Train length | |
| Width | 3,360 mm (11 ft 0 in)[1] |
| Height | 4,050 mm (13 ft 3 in)[1] |
| Platform height | 1,250 mm (4 ft 1.2 in) |
| Maximum speed |
|
| Axle load | <17 t (16.7 long tons; 18.7 short tons)[1] |
| Traction system | Water cooling IGBT-VVVF inverter control (Zhuzhou CRRC Times Electric) |
| Traction motors | YQ-625 external sector 3-phase AC induction motor (Zhuzhou CRRC Times Electric) |
| Electric system(s) | 25 kV 50 Hz AC Overhead catenary |
| Current collection | Pantograph |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge |
The CR400AF Fuxing (Chinese: 复兴号; pinyin: Fùxīng Hào) is a Chinese electric high-speed train developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang. As part of the China Standardized EMU, the CR400AF is designed to operate at a cruise speed of 350 km/h (217 mph) and a maximum speed of 420 km/h (261 mph) in commercial service. Development on the project started in 2012, and the design plan was finished in September 2014. The first EMU rolled off the production line on 30 June 2015.[2] The series received its current designation of Fuxing in June 2017, with the nickname Red Dragon.[3] It is among the world's fastest conventional high-speed trains in regular service, with an operating speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).
A derivative version of this train known as KCIC400AF or Komodo Merah (lit. 'red komodo dragon') or Petir Merah (lit. 'red lightning') is exported for operations in Indonesia on their Jakarta–Bandung high-speed railway.[4][5]
Variants
[edit]All variants of the Fuxing train are compatible. The EMU models share the same standard required by China Railway Corporation, hence the name China Standardized EMU. Fuxing train models can be identified by the designation. No letter after the dash indicates the standard 8-car configuration. A indicates a 16-car configuration; B indicates 17-car configurations; C indicates 8-car multiple units with automatic train operation capability; G indicates 8-car sandstorm and cold climate resistant trainset; and Z indicates 8-car configuration with redesigned interior and exterior. Some variants have two letters indicating combined configuration, such as type GZ being the train set featuring extreme weather resistant capability (type G) and redesigned interior and exterior (type Z).[6]
CR400AF
[edit]
8-car standard production model with standard maximum speed of 420 km/h (261 mph). It is manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang.[7][8]
KCIC400AF/AF-CIT
[edit]Exported derivative of the CR400AF for Jakarta–Bandung high-speed line.[5]
CR400AF–A
[edit]16-car version manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang.[9] The first CR400AF-A started operation in July 2018 on the Beijing–Shanghai high-speed railway. These sets are 415 m (1,361 ft 7 in) long and have a passenger capacity of 1,193 passengers.[10]
CR400AF–B
[edit]17-car version manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang. Testing started in 2018[11] and entered passenger service in 2019 in response to high passenger demand on the Beijing–Shanghai high-speed railway.[12][11] These sets are 440 m (1,443 ft 7 in) and have a passenger capacity of 1,283 people.[13]
CR400AF–C
[edit]8-car ATO enabled version with redesigned interior and exterior. It is manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang.
CR400AF–G
[edit]8-car sandstorm and cold climate resistant version. It is manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang.
CR400AF–Z
[edit]
8-car variant with redesigned and upgraded interior and exterior. It is manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang.[14] It is now being used on most of the high speed railway in China. They have a capacity of 578 passengers.[15]
CR400AF–BZ
[edit]17-car variant with redesigned and upgraded interior and exterior. It is manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang.
CR400AF-AZ
[edit]16-car variant with upgraded train system. Manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang
CR400AF–S
[edit]An upgraded 8-car variant of CR400AF-Z (see below) with enhancements to the interior to accommodate more passengers. It has a capacity of 619 passengers.[16]
CR400AF–AS
[edit]An upgraded 16-car variant, known as the CR400AF-AS, was introduced in September 2025 with upgraded train system and can accommodate more passengers.It has a capacity of 1254 passengers.[17]
CR400AF–BS
[edit]An upgraded 17-car variant, known as the CR400AF-BS, was introduced in April 2024 for operation on the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway, beginning 15 June 2024. This variant features interior enhancements to accommodate more passengers and includes a new seating class called Premium First Class, positioned between First Class and Business Class.[18]
CR400AF-AE
[edit]16-car sleeper variant with upgraded train system. Manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang. It is Operation by Beijing West/Shanghai-Hongqiao to Hong Kong West Kowloon High Speed Sleeper Train Service use only.
CR400AF-J
[edit]
The CR400AF-J is a 8-car comprehensive inspection train.
Specification
[edit]| Train type | Car dimensions | Total length | Top speed | Seating capacity | Formation | Power output (under 25 kV) |
Entry into Service |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR400AF/AF–A/AF–B | |||||||
| CR400AF | End cars length: 27.91 m (91 ft 7 in) Inter cars length: 25.65 m (84 ft 2 in) Width: 3.36 m (11 ft 0 in) Height: 4.05 m (13 ft 3 in) |
Calculated: 209.72 m (688 ft 1 in) Real: 209 m (685 ft 8 in) |
Test: 420 km/h (261 mph) Design: 400 km/h (249 mph) Continuous operation: 400 km/h (249 mph) Current operation: 350 km/h (217 mph) |
556: 10 business, 28 first and 518 standard 576: 10 business, 28 first and 538 standard 392: 10 business, 24 first and 358 standard |
4M4T | 10.4 MW (13,947 hp) | August 15, 2016 |
| CR400AF–A | Calculated: 414.92 m (1,361 ft 3 in) Real: 414 m (1,358 ft 3 in) |
1193: 22 business, 148 first and 1023 standard | 8M8T | 19.2 MW (25,748 hp) | June 16, 2018 | ||
| CR400AF–B | Calculated: 438.928 m (1,440 ft 0.6 in) Real: 439.8 m (1,442 ft 11 in) |
1283: 22 business, 148 first and 1113 standard | 8M9T | January 5, 2019 | |||
Formation
[edit]This section is missing information about the formation of the KCIC400AF trains. (December 2024) |
|
Power Destination
|
Coach Type
|
CR400AF, CR400AF–C, CR400AF–Z, CR400AF–G, CR400AF–S
[edit]| Coach No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type12345 | ZYS | ZE | ZEC | ZE | ZES | |||
| Type6 | ZY | CA | WR | ZY | ||||
| Power Configuration | Mc | Tp | M | T | M | Tp | Mc | |
| Power Units | Unit 1 | Unit 2 | ||||||
| Capacity1 | 5+28 | 90 | 75 | 63 | 90 | 5+40 | ||
| Capacity2 | 5+24 | 60 | 48 | 42 | 60 | 5+28 | ||
| Capacity3 | 6+28 | 90 | 75 | 63 | 90 | 6+40 | ||
| Capacity4 | 5+28 | 90 | 75 | 63 | 90 | 6+40 | ||
| Capacity5 | 5+32 | 93 | 78 | 83 | 93 | 6+43 | ||
| Capacity6 | 7+24 | / | 2+36 | 24 | 2+14 | 7+24 | ||
- ^1 Remaining series
- ^2 Train No. CR400AF–2017, CR400AF–2142 to CR400AF–2146
- ^3 Remaining CR400AF–Z series, and CR400AF–C–2214
- ^4 Train No. CR400AF–Z–1059 to CR400AF–Z–1063, CR400AF–Z–2316 to CR400AF–Z–2340
- ^5 Train No. CR400AF–S–1064 to CR400AF–S–1080, CR400AF–S–2346 to CR400AF–S–2397
- ^6 Train No. CR400AF–2018 to CR400AF–2020, 2029, 2369, 2818 (Government trains)
CR400AF–2808 (Government Train)
[edit]| Coach No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | ZY | CA | ZY | WR | ||||||||
| Power Configuration | Tc | M | Tp | M | Tp | M | T | M | Tp | M | Tc | |
| Power Units | Unit 1 | Unit 2 | Unit 3 | |||||||||
| Capacity | 7+24 | / | 60 | 2+36 | 24 | 2+14 | 24 | |||||
CR400AF–A, CR400AF–AZ, CR400AF–AE
[edit]| Coach No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type12 | SW | ZY | ZE | ZEC | ZE | ZY | ZYS | |||||||||
| Type3 | ZYE | WR | WRC | WR | ZYE | |||||||||||
| Power Configuration | Tc | M | Tp | M | Tp | M | T | M | Tp | M | Tp | M | Tc | |||
| Power Units | Unit 1 | Unit 2 | Unit 3 | Unit 4 | ||||||||||||
| Capacity1 | 5+12 | 60 | 90 | 75 | 48 | 90 | 60 | 5+28 | ||||||||
| Capacity2 | 6+12 | 60 | 90 | 75 | 48 | 90 | 60 | 6+28 | ||||||||
| Capacity3 | 12+45 | 40 | 18 | 40 | 12+45 | |||||||||||
CR400AF–B, CR400AF–BZ, CR400AF–BS
[edit]| Coach No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type12 | SW | ZY | ZE | ZEC | ZE | ZY | ZYS | ||||||||||
| Power Configuration | Tc | M | Tp | M | Tp | M | T | M | Tp | M | Tp | M | T | Tc | |||
| Power Units | Unit 1 | Unit 2 | Unit 3 | Unit 4 | |||||||||||||
| Capacity1 | 5+12 | 60 | 90 | 75 | 48 | 90 | 60 | 5+28 | |||||||||
| Capacity2 | 6+12 | 60 | 90 | 75 | 48 | 90 | 60 | 6+28 | |||||||||
| Capacity3 | 6+14 | 62 | 93 | 78 | 73 | 93 | 62 | 5+24 | |||||||||
Distribution
[edit]As of December 2024, there are 533[clarification needed (in China Railways service only, or including KCIC in Indonesia?)] CR400AF series EMU in service.
|
Train model letter identification
|
Vehicle number distinction
|
| Operator | Quantity | Serial number | Depot | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR400AF | ||||
| CR Beijing | 5 | 2183–2187 | Beijing South | 2183–2187 have LKJ train operation monitoring devices End cars of 2186, 2187 have small windows |
| 23 | 0207, 0208, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014-2016, 2034, 2047, 2048, 2142–2144, 2179, 2181, 2182, 2213 | Beijing West | 0207, 0208 are original models 2+2 second class seats in 2142–2144 2213 original number was 2021 | |
| 8 | 2008, 2030, 2033, 2058, 2145, 2146, 2178, 2180 | Xiong'an | 2+2 second class seats in 2145, 2146 | |
| CR Guangzhou | 15 | 1006, 1010, 1015-1020, 1022-1025, 1040, 2011, 2226, 2228 | Guangzhou South | 1006 original number was 1001 1040, 2228 equipped with driver cab's door |
| 9 | 1007-1009, 1011-1014, 1021, 1039 | Chaozhou | 1039 equipped with driver cab's door | |
| 31 | 2011, 2017, 2024, 2026-2028, 2035-2038, 2040-2046, 2051, 2053-2055, 2057, 2060-2062, 2064, 2130, 2131, 2133, 2227, 2229 | Changsha | 2227, 2229 equipped with driver cab's door | |
| CR Jinan | 8 | 2086, 2088–2090, 2134, 2136-2138 | Qingdao | |
| 12 | 2085, 2087, 2091–2094, 2139, 2141, 2162, 2163, 2230, 2231 | Jinan East | 2230, 2231 equipped with driver cab's door | |
| CR Wuhan | 15 | 2124, 2125, 2128, 2151, 2154-2156, 2159, 2164, 2171, 2172, 2174–2177 | Wuhan | |
| 10 | 2126, 2127, 2148–2150, 2152, 2153, 2160, 2161, 2173 | Hankou | ||
| CR Chengdu | 17 | 2005, 2013, 2025, 2031, 2032, 2049, 2135, 2140, 2236, 2244–2248, 2254–2256 | Chongqing West | 2236, 2244–2248, 2254–2256 equipped with driver cab's door |
| CR Shanghai | 15 | 2222–2225, 2232–2235, 2237–2243 | Shanghai Hongqiao | All equipped with driver cab's door |
| CR Nanning | 16 | 2001, 2003, 2022, 2039, 2050, 2052, 2056, 2059, 2063, 2129, 2132, 2147, 2157, 2158, 2165, 2170 | Nanning Tunil | |
| KCIC400AF | ||||
| Kereta Cepat Indonesia China | 11 | 22 02–22 12 | Tegalluar | |
| CR400AF-A | ||||
| CR Guangzhou | 11 | 1003, 1005, 1026, 1027, 1030, 1032, 1034–1038 | Guangzhou South | |
| 19 | 1001, 1002, 1004, 1028, 1029, 1031, 1033, 2065, 2066, 2069, 2071, 2073, 2077–2079, 2098, 2105, 2194, 2195 | Shenzhen | 1001 original number was 1002 | |
| 20 | 2067, 2068, 2070, 2072, 2074–2076, 2080–2084, 2095-2097, 2099, 2100, 2103, 2104, 2106 | Changsha | ||
| CR Jinan | 14 | 2101, 2102, 2107–2115, 2193, 2201–2205, 2211, 2212 | Jinan East | |
| CR Wuhan | 8 | 2190–2192, 2196–2200 | Wuhan | |
| CR400AF-B | ||||
| CR Beijing | 13 | 2116–2123, 2206–2210 | Beijing South | |
| CR400AF-G | ||||
| CR Beijing | 4 | 0021, 2215–2217 | Beijing South | 0021 used to be the 400kph test vehicle 2215–2217 equipped with driver cab's door |
| CR400AF-C | ||||
| CR Beijing | 1 | 2214 | Xiong'an | Original number was 0210, equipped with driver cab's door and only Fuxing train with HUD display |
| CR400AF-Z | ||||
| CR Beijing | 10 | 2251, 2252, 2286–2293 | Shijiazhuang | |
| CR Chengdu | 5 | 2253, 2257, 2316–2318 | Chongqing West | 2253 original number was CR400AF-C-0209 |
| 23 | 1041–1063 | Chengdu East | ||
| CR Wuhan | 8 | 0211–0218 | Wuhan | |
| CR Nanchang | 22 | 0219–0223, 2284, 2285, 2294–2308 | Nanchang West | |
| 16 | 2319-2334 | Xiamen North | ||
| CR Guangzhou | 20 | 2258–2271, 2335–2340 | Changsha | |
| CR Jinan | 14 | 2272–2283, 2309, 2310 | Qingdao | |
| CR400AF-AZ | ||||
| CR Guangzhou | 5 | 2311–2315 | Changsha | |
| CR400AF-BZ | ||||
| CR Beijing | 2 | 2249, 2250 | Beijing South | |
| CR400AF-S | ||||
| CR Guangzhou | 55 | 0224–0242, 1064–1068, 1073-1083, 1087, 1088, 2362-2371, 2382-2385, 2394-2397 | Shenzhen | |
| CR Chengdu | 13 | 1069–1072, 1084-1086, 1089-1094 | Chengdu East | |
| 15 | 2386, 2387, 2403–2406, 2419-2422, 2430-2432, 2439, 2440 | Chongqing West | ||
| CR Beijing | 3 | 2346–2348 | Shijiazhuang | |
| CR Wuhan | 18 | 2349–2352, 2359, 2360, 2389–2393, 2413, 2414, 2423-2425, 2433, 2434 | Wuhan | |
| CR Jinan | 8 | 2353–2358, 2435, 2436 | Jinan East | |
| 5 | 2372–2376 | Qingdao | ||
| CR Taiyuan | 9 | 2377–2381, 2411, 2412, 2437, 2438 | Taiyuan | |
| CR Nanning | 12 | 2361, 2388, 2407–2410, 2415-2418, 2428, 2429 | Nanning Tunil | |
| CR Kunming | 2 | 2426, 2427 | Kunming South | |
| CR400AF-BS | ||||
| CR Beijing | 5 | 2341–2345 | Beijing South | |
| CR400AF-AE | ||||
| CR Guangzhou | 5 | 2398–2402 | Shenzhen | |
| CR400AF (Officials) | ||||
| Government of China | 4 | 2018, 2019, 2808, 2818 | Special Transportation Office | Official Trains Carriage 6 of trainset 2808 and 2818 have similar structures to CRH380A–2808 Trainset 2808 have 12 carriages instead of regular 8 |
| CR400AF-J | ||||
| China Railway of Academy Sciences | 1 | 0002 | N/a | |
| CR400AF-Z | ||||
| Guangzhou Railway Vocational Technical College | 1 | CR400AF-Z-GRP01 | N/a | Teaching vehicle, power configuration is 1M1T |
| KCIC400AF-CIT | ||||
| Kereta Cepat Indonesia China | 1 | 22 01 | Tegalluar | Comprehensive Inspection Train |
| CR400AF-S | ||||
| 1 | 0001 | Double-decker EMU test train | ||
Gallery
[edit]-
CR400AF prototype testing in the National Railway Test Center, Beijing. It was called CRH-0208 at that time.
-
CR400AF-2016 departing Shanghai railway station as G6
-
CR400AF-BZ-2249 at Beijing South railway station
-
KCIC400AF at Tegalluar station, awaiting departure to Jakarta's Halim station
-
Business class seats on CR400AF-B-2116
-
Redesigned business class seats on CR400AF-BZ-2249
-
First Class cabin interior on CR400AF-B-2119
-
Premium First Class on CR400AF-BS-2344
-
Premium Economy class seats on KCIC400AF, operating in Indonesia
See also
[edit]- China Railway CR400BF
- China Railway CR300AF
- China Railway CR300BF
- China Railway High-speed, Chinese high-speed railway service provided by China Railway.
- China Railway, Chinese state-owned corporation that operates all Fuxing trains.
- Fuxing (train), the train brand CR400AF is part of.
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e f g h ""中国标准"动车组正式下线 时速350公里". ifeng.com. June 30, 2015.
- ^ "350km/h China Standard EMU Rolled Off the Line". China Railway. June 30, 2015.
- ^ "China EMU train linking Datong and Xi'an passes high speed test". Xinhua. November 18, 2015. Archived from the original on 20 November 2015.
- ^ Kereta Cepat Indonesia China [@keretacepat_id]; (22 December 2021). "Sobat #KeretaCepat, siapa di sini yang sudah tidak sabar menantikan 2022, serta melajunya Si Komodo Merah di Trial Run nanti?" (in Indonesian) – via Instagram.
- ^ a b Kereta Cepat Indonesia China [@keretacepat_id]; (25 May 2022). "Jadi EMU KCJB memiliki nama tipe KCIC400AF, dan KCIC400AF-CIT untuk kereta inspeksinya. Hal tersebut sudah menjadi standar penamaan dari pihak konsorsium mengingat EMU dan CIT KCJB memiliki konfigurasi khusus yang menjadikannya unik dan berbeda dengan tipe lainnya" (in Indonesian) – via Instagram.
- ^ "收藏+转发!复兴号家族最全图鉴来了". Tencent News (in Chinese). 19 April 2021.
- ^ "时速350公里中国标准动车组下线--国家知识产权局". archive.is. 2015-10-17. Archived from the original on 2015-10-17. Retrieved 2020-06-11.
- ^ "国家铁路局向中国标准动车组颁发许可证_国家铁路局". www.nra.gov.cn. Retrieved 2020-06-11.
- ^ "加长版复兴号下月京沪间开跑". Archived from the original on 12 June 2018. Retrieved 9 June 2018.
- ^ "Longest high-speed trains go into service - SHINE". SHINE. Retrieved 2018-07-07.
- ^ a b 北京青年报 (2018-10-03). "17辆超长版复兴号现身北京 明年投入京沪高铁运营". news.sina.com.cn. Retrieved 2020-06-11.
- ^ "多加一节,17编组复兴号又添这些创新点-新华网". www.xinhuanet.com. Retrieved 2019-11-09.
- ^ "超长版时速350公里"复兴号"上线运营-中新网". www.chinanews.com. Retrieved 2020-06-11.
- ^ 薄克国 (20 June 2022). "青岛造!"智能版"复兴号时速350公里高标运营". Dazhong Daily (in Chinese). Retrieved 27 May 2025.
- ^ "成都至香港高鐵升級復興號動車組 明起開行". Oriental Daily News (in Chinese). 25 October 2023. Retrieved 27 May 2025.
- ^ "CR400AF-S动车组 - 动车组列车 - 记录动车组列车发展历程——慧伊创新科技(北京)有限公司". www.china-emu.cn. Retrieved 2024-07-13.
- ^ "CR400AF-AS动车组 - 动车组列车 - 记录动车组列车发展历程——慧伊创新科技(北京)有限公司". www.china-emu.cn. Retrieved 2026-02-02.
- ^ "CR400AF-BS动车组 - 动车组列车 - 记录动车组列车发展历程——慧伊创新科技(北京)有限公司". www.china-emu.cn. Retrieved 2024-07-13.
China Railway CR400AF
View on GrokipediaIntroduction
Overview
The China Railway CR400AF is a second-generation Chinese high-speed electric multiple unit (EMU) train in the Fuxing (Rejuvenation) series, developed under the China Standardized EMU program to standardize and advance domestic high-speed rail technology.[4][6] This initiative aimed to create a unified platform for speeds up to 400 km/h, with the CR400AF representing a key evolution from earlier CRH series trains by incorporating fully indigenous design and manufacturing.[6] Manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang Locomotive and Rolling Stock, the CR400AF features an operational speed of 350 km/h and a design speed of 400 km/h (tested to 420 km/h), enabling efficient long-distance operations.[7][8] It entered commercial service in September 2017, initially on the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway, marking a milestone in China's push for technological self-reliance in rail transport.[9] As of June 2025, approximately 550 units of the CR400AF are in service, predominantly configured as 16-car sets to accommodate high passenger volumes.[8] The train forms the backbone of China's extensive high-speed rail network, particularly on flagship routes like the Beijing-Shanghai line, where it has reduced travel times from over five hours to about 4.5 hours, enhancing connectivity and economic integration across major cities.[6][9]Naming and branding
The official designation of the train is China Railway CR400AF, where "CR" stands for China Railway and "400" denotes its design speed of 400 km/h.[10] The "AF" suffix indicates production by CRRC Qingdao Sifang Locomotive and Rolling Stock.[11] It is compatible with 25 kV 50 Hz AC overhead catenary electrification, standard for China's high-speed rail network. In June 2017, China Railway Corporation conducted a naming ceremony in Beijing, officially designating the CR400AF and related models as part of the Fuxing (复兴号, meaning "Rejuvenation") series to evoke national rejuvenation and symbolize China's progress in indigenous high-speed rail technology.[4] This renaming underscored the train's role as a emblem of national pride, representing a shift from imported to domestically developed high-speed rail systems.[12] The Fuxing branding highlights technological self-reliance, aligning with broader goals of advancing China's engineering capabilities.[13] The CR400AF has earned the nickname "Red Dragon" among rail enthusiasts and media, inspired by its sleek aerodynamic profile and prominent red livery that resembles the mythical Chinese dragon in motion.[2] This moniker emphasizes the train's cultural resonance and dynamic design. As a flagship of China's high-speed rail exports and domestic network, the CR400AF features in official promotional campaigns by China Railway Corporation, showcasing its fully indigenous development as a key achievement in the "Made in China 2025" industrial strategy for high-tech manufacturing innovation.[14] These materials often portray the train as a symbol of economic vitality and global competitiveness in rail technology.[15]Development
Background and research
The development of the China Railway CR400AF, part of the Fuxing series of high-speed electric multiple units (EMUs), emerged from China's strategic shift toward indigenous high-speed rail technology following the initial reliance on imported designs in the CRH series. During the early 2000s, China imported and assembled CRH trains based on foreign technologies from Japan, Germany, and France through technology transfer agreements, but restrictions imposed by international partners on core intellectual property prompted a push for self-reliance. This evolution was formalized under the 11th Five-Year Plan (2006–2010), which prioritized railway modernization and domestic innovation to reduce dependency on external suppliers and build a unified national high-speed rail ecosystem.[16][17] Research for the CR400AF began in 2012 as a core component of the China Railway Comprehensive Standardization Experiment project, initiated by the Ministry of Railways (later the China Railway Corporation) to establish proprietary standards for high-speed EMUs. This effort integrated resources from six state-owned enterprises, 25 universities, 11 research institutions, 51 specialized laboratories, and over 10,000 engineers, marking a collaborative national endeavor to create a standardized platform with full domestic intellectual property rights. The project was officially launched in June 2013, building on prior CRH platforms to develop next-generation trains capable of seamless interoperability across China's expanding network.[15][6] Key objectives included achieving an operational speed of 350 km/h while improving energy efficiency and reliability beyond predecessors like the CRH380 series, which had higher maximum speeds but greater operational costs and foreign component dependencies. The design targeted reduced energy consumption through optimized aerodynamics and propulsion systems, alongside enhanced durability for intensive service, aiming to lower lifecycle costs and support sustainable network growth. These goals aligned with broader aims to foster technological independence and economic benefits from high-speed rail deployment.[15][6] The initiative received strong policy backing from State Council directives outlined in the Medium- and Long-Term Railway Network Plan, which mandated expansion of the high-speed rail network to 18,000 km by 2020 to connect major economic hubs and promote regional development. This expansion was supported by substantial central government funding, emphasizing indigenous innovation as a national priority to secure supply chains and export potential.[17][16]Design and manufacturing
The design of the China Railway CR400AF, part of the Fuxing series, was finalized in September 2014 as a key milestone in China's standardized electric multiple unit (EMU) program, emphasizing modular components to facilitate maintenance, scalability, and cost efficiency across variants.[8] This approach allowed for interchangeable parts in systems like traction and braking, reducing lifecycle costs and enabling rapid production adjustments.[16] Central to the CR400AF's engineering are innovations such as asynchronous squirrel-cage induction traction motors, which provide efficient power delivery at high speeds, paired with a fully distributed power system featuring eight powered bogies in the standard eight-car formation—comprising four motor cars each with two powered bogies and four trailers. [18] This configuration enhances traction stability and energy distribution without centralized power cars, contributing to the train's operational reliability.[19] Manufacturing of the CR400AF occurs at the CRRC Qingdao Sifang Locomotive and Rolling Stock facility, utilizing aluminum alloy extruded body structures for lightweight yet durable construction that improves energy efficiency and reduces axle loads.[20] The first prototype rolled out on June 30, 2015, marking the transition from design to physical production.[8] Development involved collaboration among Chinese railway entities and CRRC subsidiaries, integrating advanced technologies protected by over 1,000 patents in high-speed rail innovation, including sophisticated pantograph systems for stable overhead current collection and electro-pneumatic braking setups for precise force distribution.[21] [22] These elements underscore the CR400AF's role in advancing indigenous high-speed rail capabilities.[6]Testing and introduction
The testing of the CR400AF, part of the Fuxing high-speed train family, commenced in July 2015 with dynamic trials on the Beijing-Shijiazhuang test track, where prototypes achieved speeds up to 420 km/h.[8] These tests encompassed 66 vehicle-type evaluations across multiple lines, including Datong–Xi'an, focusing on performance under high-speed conditions.[6] During trials in July 2016, the train demonstrated intersection speeds of 420 km/h, validating its aerodynamic and structural integrity.[6] Certification was granted in 2016 by the China Academy of Railway Sciences following comprehensive type testing and application assessments, confirming compliance with safety and operational standards.[6] Key challenges during testing included noise and vibration management; interior noise levels were reduced by 1–7 dB at 350 km/h compared to prior models through optimized materials and designs, while lateral vibration stability improved by 21% and vertical by 11%, enhancing passenger comfort.[6] The CR400AF entered revenue service on June 26, 2017, initially operating at 300 km/h on the Beijing–Shanghai high-speed railway and taking approximately 4 hours 48 minutes for the journey.[4][23] On September 21, 2017, operations at the design speed of 350 km/h were introduced, reducing the travel time to about 4 hours 18 minutes.[6] Initial deployment involved batch production sets, with 16-car variants introduced in July 2018 to expand capacity on the route.[6] By 2018, the train achieved full commercial operation across key lines, signifying China's complete transition to domestically developed high-speed rail technology with independent intellectual property rights.[6]Design and technology
Exterior and aerodynamics
The CR400AF exhibits a streamlined body design characterized by a double-arch ellipsoid nose cone, which facilitates efficient pantograph integration on the roof for overhead line contact during high-speed travel. This configuration minimizes turbulence and supports stable current collection. The exterior is finished in a distinctive silver body with red stripes, often referred to as the "Red Dragon" livery, enhancing its visual identity while adhering to standard China Railway branding.[24] Aerodynamic optimizations for the CR400AF were developed through rigorous wind tunnel testing and detached-eddy simulation numerical methods, focusing on the nose shape to lower overall drag and improve crosswind stability. The double-arch design reduces high-pressure zones at the front, contributing to better performance than earlier single-arch configurations, with validated simulations showing drag coefficients around 0.73–0.76 for optimized variants in scaled models. Compared to predecessors like the CRH380 series, the head shape enhancements yield measurable reductions in air resistance, supporting operational speeds up to 350 km/h.[25][26] The train's structure employs ultrathin hollow aluminum alloy extruded profiles for the car body frame, providing corrosion resistance, structural integrity, and significant weight savings—resulting in an empty weight of approximately 420 tonnes for an 8-car set. Composite materials are incorporated in select panels to further lighten the design without compromising durability.[16] To address diverse operating environments, the CR400AF incorporates dust-proof seals around doors, windows, and underbody components to prevent ingress of particulates in arid regions. Cold-weather variants, such as the CR400BF-GZ adaptation, feature enhanced thermal insulation and anti-icing measures on the pantograph and bogies, enabling reliable service in temperatures as low as -40 °C and snowy conditions.[27][28]Interior and amenities
The CR400AF features a multi-class seating arrangement designed to cater to varying passenger needs, with business class offering 2+2 configuration for enhanced comfort in dedicated cars, typically accommodating around 20 seats across the formation. First-class seating also employs a 2+2 layout with increased legroom and adjustable headrests, while second-class uses a 2+3 arrangement for higher density. In the 16-car variant (CR400AF-A), the train provides a total seating capacity of 1,193 passengers, balancing space efficiency with operational demands.[6][29][6] Passenger amenities emphasize convenience and modern connectivity, including free Wi-Fi coverage throughout the cars for mobile access and entertainment. Power outlets are available at every seat, supporting device charging via standard sockets and USB ports. Certain variants, such as the intelligent CR400AF-Z, feature a dedicated dining car with a restaurant bar area equipped with automated vending machines offering self-service options for snacks, drinks, and fruits. Interior noise levels are maintained at approximately 64 dB(A) during operation at 350 km/h, achieved through advanced vibration and sound insulation materials that reduce cabin noise by 1–3 dB compared to predecessors. Seats across classes are adjustable for recline and positioning to improve long-journey comfort.[6][1][29][30][6] Accessibility provisions support diverse passengers, with dedicated wheelchair spaces in select cars, including priority areas near restrooms and adjustable tie-down fixtures. Braille signage is integrated into service facilities, such as controls and directories, to assist visually impaired travelers. Family-friendly zones are designated in second-class areas, featuring grouped seating and proximity to amenities for easier management of children and luggage.[31][32][1] Sustainability features incorporate energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting throughout the interiors for reduced power draw and longevity. The HVAC system employs frequency conversion technology for precise temperature regulation, minimizing energy use while maintaining air quality and lowering operational noise. These elements contribute to an overall 17% reduction in per capita energy consumption at operational speeds.[16][29][6]Propulsion and power systems
The CR400AF electric multiple unit (EMU) obtains its power from a 25 kV 50 Hz AC overhead catenary system, enabling efficient high-speed operation across China's electrified rail network.[2] The traction system incorporates regenerative braking, which converts kinetic energy during deceleration back into electrical energy for reuse, thereby enhancing overall energy efficiency.[16] The propulsion is driven by 16 YQ-625 three-phase asynchronous AC induction motors distributed across the four powered cars in the standard 8-car (4M4T) formation, delivering a total rated power of 10,400 kW.[6][33] Power conversion is handled by water-cooled insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) variable voltage variable frequency (VVVF) inverters, which provide precise control and thermal management for sustained high-performance output.[1][16] The bogies employ a fully suspended traction motor configuration, contributing to smooth power transmission and reduced vibration, while maintaining an axle load below 17 tons to minimize track wear and support lightweight design goals.[16] This setup yields a power-to-weight ratio of approximately 20.7 kW per ton, facilitating rapid acceleration from standstill to 350 km/h in 391 seconds.[16][6]Safety and control systems
The CR400AF incorporates an advanced regenerative electro-pneumatic braking system that integrates with the train's propulsion components to recover energy during deceleration, achieving regenerative braking power 1.3 times the traction capacity of 10,400 kW and significantly reducing wear on brake pads.[6] This system employs compound electro-pneumatic control for unified management and distribution of braking forces, ensuring consistent deceleration curves across the train formation.[6] It also includes electronic anti-skid devices for both electric and air braking modes, which detect wheel sliding and apply adhesion regaining control to maintain stability and prevent lock-up during high-speed stops.[34] For train control and signaling, the CR400AF is fully compatible with the Chinese Train Control System Level 3 (CTCS-3), enabling precise speed supervision and automatic protection against overspeed or signal violations.[6] Later variants, such as the CR400AF-C, incorporate Automatic Train Operation (ATO) functionality under the CTCS-3 + ATO framework, supporting automated departure, sectional running, precise station stopping within 3 meters, door control, and speed adjustments to enhance operational efficiency and safety.[6][35] Structural safety features emphasize crashworthiness through multi-level energy-absorption designs in the end structures, including collision-resistant carbodies equipped with five-hole combined energy-absorbing devices using metal thin-wall pipe fittings for high-capacity impact mitigation.[6] These designs have been verified in collision tests meeting international standards such as EN 15227, with CRRC conducting full-scale impacts at speeds up to 76 km/h to ensure occupant survival space and structural integrity.[36] All passenger cars are fitted with comprehensive fire suppression systems compliant with EN 45545 fire protection standards, including automatic detection and extinguishing mechanisms to mitigate risks from electrical or material fires.[37] The train's monitoring capabilities rely on over 2,500 sensor points distributed across key components, providing real-time health diagnostics through IoT-enabled networks for predictive maintenance.[6][38] These sensors collect data on more than 1,500 parameters, including bearing temperatures and system faults, transmitted via 3G/4G wireless systems and the Wireless Transmitting Device (WTD) to ground control for early anomaly detection and proactive interventions.[6]Specifications
Dimensions and capacity
The China Railway CR400AF, part of the Fuxing series, adheres to standard dimensions designed for compatibility with China's high-speed rail infrastructure. It measures 3.36 meters in width and 4.05 meters in height, optimizing aerodynamics and clearance on dedicated tracks.[6] The train operates on a standard track gauge of 1,435 mm, aligning with international norms for high-speed rail systems.[39] Train length varies by formation to accommodate different route demands and passenger volumes. The 8-car configuration spans approximately 209 meters, while longer sets extend to 414.26 meters for 16 cars and 440 meters for 17 cars.[1] The gross weight of a typical Fuxing set is about 450 tonnes, reflecting its aluminum alloy construction for reduced mass while maintaining structural integrity. The maximum axle load is under 17 tonnes.[40][1] Passenger capacity is configured for efficiency, with seating arrangements prioritizing second-class accommodations. The following table summarizes key capacities across formations:| Formation | Length (m) | Passenger Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 8-car | 209 | 576 |
| 16-car | 414.26 | 1,193 |
| 17-car | 440 | 1,283 |