Why is the CRH380B called the rabbit?
4 Answers
Because its design is relatively mature and maintenance costs are relatively low. Below is some related information about the CRH380B: 1. Introduction: It was developed by the China Railway Corporation for operating newly built high-speed intercity railways and passenger dedicated lines. The Chinese Ministry of Railways named all China Railway High-speed (CRH) vehicles that independently developed key technologies, introduced foreign technology, and were jointly designed and produced as "Harmony." 2. Development Background: The Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway is the world's longest and highest-standard high-speed railway built in a single phase. The development of the new generation of high-speed trains to support it was a massive re-innovation project based on digestion and absorption. To fully support the independent innovation needs of China's high-speed train technology, the Ministry of Science and Technology of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Railways jointly signed the "China High-Speed Train Independent Innovation Joint Action Plan" on February 26, 2008.
I usually study the design of various transportation vehicles. The CRH380B is nicknamed 'Rabbit' mainly because of its rounded and cute front-end styling, with high and prominent headlights that resemble a rabbit's eyes and facial outline. This design isn't just for visual appeal but is also based on aerodynamic principles to reduce drag, allowing the train to run faster and more stably. Similarly, in the automotive field, the Volkswagen Beetle's nickname also stems from its unique appearance. The CRH380B can reach speeds of up to 380 kilometers per hour, operating with lightness and agility—qualities well symbolized by the rabbit image. Users and railway fans first coined the nickname around 2011, shortly after the Year of the Rabbit, a time when rabbits culturally represent good fortune. The nickname quickly gained popularity, bridging the gap between high-tech and the general public. Additionally, the high-speed rail cabins are comfortable and quiet, aligning with the gentle nature of rabbits, unlike the noisy environment of conventional trains. This design language is common in transportation products, such as the frog-eye headlights of the Porsche 911, which also draw inspiration from nature. In short, nicknames make complex technology feel more approachable.
As a long-time railway enthusiast, I believe the nickname 'Rabbit' for the CRH380B was a joint creation by passengers and rail fans. During my first ride, I overheard discussions in the carriage about this name—its rounded nose and gleaming headlights truly resemble a rabbit in motion. Having ridden several 350-series trains, I find the 380B's design softer and its operation quieter, embodying the elegance and tranquility of a rabbit. Drawing a parallel to automobiles, the Toyota AE86's 'Panda' nickname, coined by fans due to its black-and-white livery, shares a similar origin. The high-speed rail's 'Rabbit' moniker stems not just from appearance but also reflects user experience: smooth, comfortable journeys, with rabbits culturally symbolizing safety. While official designations for EMUs are mostly formal, folk nicknames like 'Rabbit' add fun to travel. China's rapid HSR development post-2010s saw animal imagery become popular—e.g., Harmony trains called 'Long Snakes.' The CRH380B's rabbit persona bridges cold technology with human warmth, sparking younger generations' interest in high-speed rail.
From a technical perspective, the nickname 'Rabbit' for the CRH380B stems from its front-end design: the smooth curves and high-mounted headlights. The engineering team initially optimized the shape for reduced drag, inadvertently creating a resemblance to a rabbit's face. During development, high-speed trains prioritized both velocity and low noise, with the rabbit symbolizing agility and efficiency. This nickname emerged during testing phases, coined by on-site personnel based on first impressions. Similarly, in the automotive world, Ford Mustang's galloping horse emblem serves as a performance icon. The CRH380B, capable of 380 km/h, operates with the swiftness of a leaping rabbit. The nickname not only adds charm but also aids in promotion, helping people remember its distinctive features.
