China Launches the World’s Fastest Autonomous Bullet Train Ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympics

Bryan Hood

Click here to read the full article.

China isn’t taking any chances when it comes to the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. With more than two years to go before the opening ceremony, the host country just launched the world’s fastest autonomous bullet train. The train, which connects the Chinese capital and Zhangjiakou, will dramatically cut down travel time for those attending some of the games’ more far-flung events.

Capable of hitting a top speed of 217 mph without a driver, the Jingzhang intercity railway will cut down travel time between Beijing and Zhangjiakou, where most of the game’s skiing events will be held, from three hours to one, reports The Guardian. Some trains will even be able to complete the 108-mile route, which took eight hours to travel a century ago, in as little as 45 minutes.

More from Robb Report

Dubbed the “world’s first smart high-speed railway” by the Chinese government, the line took four years to complete and has 10 stops, including one in Taizicheng, where other 2022 skiing events will be held. The trains will automatically stop and start at each station based on a precise timetable, with speed between stations being monitored by sensors. While the train is controlled by a computer, a monitoring driver will be on board at all times in case of an emergency.

The train will reportedly be jam-packed with all manner of high-tech features, including seats with 5G touch screen controls, intelligent lighting, facial recognition and thousands of real-time safety sensors. Cabins will also have plenty of storage space for sports equipment and include removable seats for passengers in wheelchairs. Robots will also be used at each station to assist with check-in and luggage and to provide directions.

China, of course, is no stranger to bullet trains. According to The Guardian, the country’s vast high-speed rail network stretches over 20,000 miles. The country is also home to the world’s fastest commercial train, the Shanghai Maglev, which can reach a top speed of 268 mph. And just last year, state-owned rail company China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation unveiled the prototype for its new high-speed maglev train, which it claims will be able to travel at an astonishing 373 mph.

Best of Robb Report

Sign up for Robb Report's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.