What is the maximum speed of an EMU train?
3 Answers
The maximum speed of an EMU train is 200-220 km/h. On mixed lines for high-speed rail and EMU trains, the speed of EMUs should be maintained at 250 km/h (if slower, it would affect the operation of high-speed rail), while the speed of high-speed rail ranges between 290-310 km/h. On the same high-speed railway line, high-speed rail is approximately 50 km/h faster than EMU trains. Additional Information: G-series trains have a higher dispatch priority than D-series trains, both of which belong to China's standard high-speed trains. High-speed rail is a railway system designed for very high speeds, enabling trains to operate at high velocities. The world's first official high-speed rail system was Japan's Shinkansen, which opened in 1964 with a design speed of 200 km/h, thus setting the initial speed standard for high-speed rail at 200 km/h.
The maximum speed of electric multiple units (EMUs) can reach nearly 500 kilometers per hour under test conditions. For example, China's Harmony EMU set a record of 486 kilometers per hour in tests, showcasing breakthroughs in engineering technology. In daily operations, to balance safety and passenger comfort, the top speed is usually controlled between 350 to 380 kilometers per hour. This speed is already fast enough to get you from Beijing to Shanghai in just four and a half hours, saving a significant amount of time. I believe the key factors are track design, power systems, and material selection. For instance, high-strength alloys reduce vibrations, and computer monitoring maintains stability, ensuring minimal malfunctions during high-speed operation. Historically, the increase in speed from the early trains' 100-200 kilometers per hour to today's standards marks a tremendous advancement in China's transportation. Moreover, future innovations in materials could potentially push speeds even higher.
The maximum speed of high-speed trains is actually divided into test speed and operational speed. During testing, it can reach over 480 kilometers per hour, but the actual maximum speed during passenger service is around 350 kilometers per hour. Safety must always be the top priority, as higher speeds increase risks, such as longer braking distances and greater difficulty in handling emergencies. I have observed that railway authorities have established strict standards, limiting operational speeds to no more than 350 kilometers per hour to ensure safety. In adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or snow, speeds are automatically reduced. Energy consumption and passenger comfort are also important considerations. High-speed operation consumes more electricity, and cabin noise and vibrations must be controlled within acceptable limits for passengers. In the long term, speed settings are based on empirical data and technical verification to ensure both efficient and safe travel.
