Developments in Railway Technology Today
Headline: China Showcases Global Railway Innovations at 17th Modern Railway Technology Exhibition
Sub-headline: High-speed trains from China and France take centre stage, including a super-fast maglev train and the Fuxing high-speed train.
The 17th edition of the China International Modern Railway Technology and Equipment Exhibition took place in Beijing on July 8, 2025, with a focus on showcasing the latest railway technologies and equipment from around the world. The event, which continued on July 9, 2025, attracted over 500 participants and featured technologies and equipment from various countries, including the Fuxing high-speed train.
One of the key showcased railway technologies was a super-fast maglev train developed by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC). This cutting-edge maglev train is capable of speeds up to 600 km/h, thanks to its advanced aerodynamic design, high-temperature superconducting magnets, artificial intelligence, 5G integration, and fully automated driving capabilities. The maglev train aims to drastically reduce travel times, with a Beijing to Shanghai journey expected to take approximately 2.5 hours, compared to the current 5.5 hours.
The maglev train incorporates advanced cooling and refrigeration to stabilize its superconducting system under extreme conditions and passed stringent safety and certification requirements due to its extraordinary top speed exceeding that of aircraft during takeoff.
Another notable participant was Alstom, a French company, which showcased its high-speed train innovations, including three models from its Avelia range. Alstom's focus was on sustainability, smart mobility, integrated train systems, advanced signalling, and lifecycle services. They also presented immersive VR experiences and interactive virtual showrooms, highlighting their leadership in green and smart high-speed rail solutions.
A visitor at the exhibition had a simulated driving experience of a Fuxing high-speed train, one of the modern railway technologies that were showcased at the event. The Fuxing high-speed train is a testament to China's commitment to pushing high-speed rail technology to new frontiers, as well as its global collaboration with firms like Alstom focused on sustainable rail solutions.
The China International Modern Railway Technology and Equipment Exhibition is an event that has been held annually since 2009, providing a platform for the global railway industry to showcase their latest technologies and innovations. The event serves as a reminder of China's growing influence in the global railway industry and its commitment to sustainable and efficient rail solutions for the future.
The China International Modern Railway Technology and Equipment Exhibition, as a platform for global showcases, also featured technologies from the finance and technology sectors, with Alstom integrating 5G and artificial intelligence into their high-speed trains. Given China's development of the super-fast maglev train, it's clear the industry and finance sectors play crucial roles in advancing transportation technology, aiming for more sustainable and efficient solutions.
