CRRC Qingdao Sifang's newly-developed high-speed train prototype CR450AF was officially unveiled on the morning of December 29 in Beijing. Designed with a test speed of 450 km/h and an operational speed of 400 km/h, the CR450AF is currently the fastest high-speed train prototype in the world.

Operating at 400 km/h places the CR450 in uncharted territory for global high-speed rail technology. The unveiling of this prototype marks a major breakthrough for China, significantly enhancing its railway innovation capabilities and self-reliance in advanced technologies and further solidifying and expanding China's leadership in the international high-speed rail industry.

China State Railway Group-led project—involving a collaborative effort by the Railway Technology Innovation Alliance which includes CRRC, domestic business enterprises, universities, and research institutions—unveiled two CR450 prototypes; one manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang and the other by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles.

According to Deputy Chief Engineer Tao Guidong of CRRC Qingdao Sifang, the CR450AF's design draws inspiration from a flying arrow. The sharp, wing-like contours of the prototype design mimic the ancient Chinese arrowhead, evoking a sense of dynamic speed and power. Its body features a flowing coloured livery with the symbolic Crimson Red and Imperial Yellow color scheme, inspired by the brushstrokes of Chinese calligraphy—fluid, precise, and elegant. The train's design reflects a harmonious blend of Chinese speed, ingenuity, and cultural heritage.

Based on the CR400 Fuxing series, the CR450 represents a comprehensive technological upgrade, achieving breakthroughs in three key integrated systems: drag reduction and energy efficiency, vibration and noise control, and full lightweight system integration. Additionally, it incorporates advanced technologies such as high-power permanent magnet traction, time-sensitive train network communication, multi-level braking control, and high-safety bogies designed for critical high speeds.

The train boasts enhanced speed, safety, energy efficiency, comfort, and intelligence, marking comprehensive innovations in theory, technology, equipment, standards, and management models. It employs multi-level emergency braking control technology, ensuring braking distances remain virtually unchanged despite increased operational speeds. For the first time, a wrapped bogie design has been introduced, significantly reducing air resistance during high-speed operation. Additionally, various novel drag-reduction designs and lightweight materials have been utilized, decreasing overall running resistance by 22% and reducing the train's weight by 10%. The train also pioneers seven new noise-reduction technologies, lowering interior noise levels by 2 decibels. Passenger service space has been expanded by 4%, offering diverse, convenient, and personalized services. Significant upgrades have been implemented in areas such as train control, intelligent driver interaction, safety monitoring, and smart passenger services. Thanks to the integrated multi-system technological innovations of the design, the train achieves a continuous operating speed of up to 400 kilometers per hour. Once commercialized, it is expected to further shorten passenger travel times.

Moving forward, China State Railway Group will conduct a series of track tests and evaluations on the CR450 prototypes to validate their performance and refine technical parameters to optimize the train's capabilities and expedite its entry into commercial service.