Advanced technologies are one of the most unique traits on the "Fuxing" high-speed trains. More importantly, instead of being imported, the trains were fully developed in China. So what are the latest technologies embedded in the trains, and what changes do they bring?
Seven driving licenses, over three million kilometers of safe driving, and 21 various types of trains, Xue Jun has witnessed the explosive growth of China's rail development from the stream, to diesel, to electric and now to high-speed train.
As a train driver with three decades of experience, he says the most distinguishing feature of the "Fuxing" is how convenient it is to operate.
"The train offers drivers a better view, and operation is more convenient. Previously there were three handles, but now it has been simplified to one," he said.
And what led to these changes were the technical breakthroughs made by China, which holds complete intellectual property rights.
Qi Yanhui, deputy director of the Science and Technical Management at China Railway Corporation says the train's core, including wheels and axles, power supply, operation management and security monitoring, are all homegrown.
"The design and manufacturing of the train are fully domestically developed, so we understand the heart of these technologies and no longer have to rely on other countries. We also added some new designs to make them safer and more economical. For instance, the absorption equipment on both ends of the train will help it avoid crashes and fatalities."
In addition, there are also 2,500 sensors on the train, Chief Engineer Zhao Hongwei said, noting that this aims to help monitor and collect over 1,000 real-time indicators.
"The sensors can monitor the temperature, stability of the equipment, and so forth and set off alarms when something goes wrong – thereby shifting danger to safety."
The "Fuxing" train is also more energy efficient, with nearly 20 percent less consumption compared with the last version of bullet trains.
And in return, passengers are enjoying the changes brought by these new technologies.
The advancement of the train is not embraced by one single technology, but rather a comprehensive support network that includes infrastructure building, train manufacturing and operation system.
With these advanced systems and technology coming together, it brings passengers a fast, pleasant and more importantly, safe journey.
