The China Academy of Railway Sciences (CARS) has revealed that two prototype CR450 high-speed trains set a new world record passing speed of 896 km/h during recent trials.
The record-breaking test took place on the Wuhan–Yichang section of the Chengdu–Shanghai high-speed line, which has yet to open for public operation. The achievement surpasses the previous record of 891 km/h, also held by the CR450 series since 2023.
During the trials, each individual train reached a maximum operating speed of 453 km/h, reaffirming China’s leadership in high-speed rail innovation.
Testing of the CR450 prototypes began in April 2025 and has spanned several high-speed routes, including the Chongqing–Qianjiang section of the Chongqing–Xiamen line and the Shenyang–Jiaozuo–Baotou corridor.
According to CARS, before the CR450 officially enters commercial service, the trains must undergo 600,000 kilometers of test operation to ensure full safety and performance certification.
This achievement further cements China’s position at the forefront of high-speed rail development, with the CR450 program representing the next step toward faster, more energy-efficient, and technologically advanced rail transport.