China has revolutionized the rail transit industry by unveiling the world's first passenger train constructed from carbon fiber, making it significantly lighter and more energy-efficient compared to traditional trains.
Introducing Cetrovo 1.0: The Carbon Star Rapid Transit
The Cetrovo 1.0, also known as the Carbon Star Rapid Transit, was launched in Qingdao, Shandong province.
Developed by Qingdao Sifang Rolling Stock Co, a subsidiary of China Railway Construction Corporation, this innovative metro train has successfully completed in-factory testing and is set to commence operations in Qingdao later this year.
Read also: 'Train of the Future': Superfast Hyperloop Shuttle Can Travel at Higher Speeds Using Less Energy
Pioneering Carbon Fiber Construction
The train's primary load-bearing structures, including the car body and bogie frame, are made from carbon fiber composite materials. This cutting-edge construction results in the train's body and frame being 25% and 50% lighter, respectively, than those made from conventional materials.
Overall, the train is 11% lighter than traditional models, leading to a 7% reduction in energy consumption, according to the South China Morning Post. This efficiency translates to a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions-about 130 tonnes annually-equivalent to planting over 100 acres of trees.
Advancing Rail Transit Technology
Qingdao Sifang emphasizes the importance of reducing vehicle weight and energy consumption in rail transit, aiming for a greener, low-carbon future.
Cetrovo trains are designed to travel at speeds up to 140 km/h (87 mph), considerably faster than the current average metro speed of 80 km/h. Moreover, the fully automated and driverless trains can navigate curved or steep tracks and operate under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures and altitudes.
The Superiority of Carbon Fiber
The metro trains we know are often made from steel or any other metals. It's somewhat chunky and heavy which limits their speed.
On the other hand, carbon fiber, composed of tightly woven carbon atoms, offers a solution. This material is five times stronger than steel yet weighs less than a quarter of it, making it ideal for applications in aviation, sports equipment, and now, rail transit.
The lighter weight of the Cetrovo train means reduced wear on wheels and tracks, resulting in lower maintenance costs and quieter journeys for passengers. Additionally, the train is equipped with an intelligent anti-collision early warning system and an obstacle detection system, which can automatically send alerts and stop the train in emergencies.
Carbon Fiber Still Remains Expensive
The cost of carbon fiber has significantly decreased over the past few decades. In the 1980s, it was priced at about $200 per pound, but by the end of the 2000s, this had dropped to $30-$50 per pound. Today, industrial-grade carbon fiber ranges from $7 to $15 per pound. Despite this, carbon fiber remains more expensive than traditional materials like steel or aluminum due to its complex manufacturing process and the cost of raw materials.
China Railway Construction Corporation
China Railway Construction Corporation, the world's largest rolling stock manufacturer, continues to lead in innovation. Since its inception in 1900 during the German occupation, Qingdao Sifang, a subsidiary of the corporation, has been at the forefront of rolling stock manufacturing in China.
In 2014, it secured its first US contract to supply metro trains to Boston, showcasing its global reach and commitment to advancing rail transit technology.
We can't imagine how far we're ahead now in the transport system. With the world's first carbon fiber passenger train, China is thinking ahead when it comes to sustainability and efficiency. Indeed, Centro trains are the future which will also promote greener campaigns in the industry.
In early 2023, the production of the first hydrogen-powered train started in China. This train is said to run as fast as 99 mph, a comparable speed with the bullet train.
