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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The first train invented in the early 19th century was not intended for humans. It was a steam-powered locomotive and first used to carry wagons of coal.
Soon, trains started to transport people with Locomotion No. 1 as the pioneer of passenger trains, commencing its first journey in September 1825 by taking 450 people from Darlington to Stockton.
Nowadays, trains have emerged as a reliable mode of land transportation. These locomotives boast a series of technologies, providing convenience to passengers. Some even take it to the next level, demonstrating an impressive speed.
Citing Visual Capitalist and Railway Technology, here's an outlook on the fastest trains in the world, featuring Asian countries as the current leaders of high-speed rail advancement.
1. Shanghai Maglev (China): 286 mph
China’s Shanghai Maglev currently holds the title of the fastest train in the world. Also known as the Shanghai Transrapid, the locomotive is owned by the Shanghai Maglev Transportation Development Company.
On an operational basis, the Shanghai Maglev moves at an average speed of 286 mph or 460 km/h. However, it has a speed record of 311 mph or 501 km/h.
The train’s ability to accelerate rapidly is made possible by the presence of electromagnetic force. It uses electromagnets to levitate above the track, hence eliminating resistance and allowing a smooth and speedy ride.
2. CR Harmony (China): 217 mph
Another Chinese locomotive on the list is the China Railway (CR) Harmony. The latter actually refers to the CRH series EMU high-speed trains.
Operating on technology from global rolling stock manufacturers, the CR Harmony reaches operational speeds of up to 217 mph (350 km/h). Some notable models of this locomotive include the CRH380B, CRH380A, and CRH380D.
3. CR Fuxing (China): 217 mph
China’s dominance in high-speed rail continues with the CR Fuxing. Despite being at the same operational speed as that of the CR Harmony, this train’s speed record is slightly behind the Harmony, clocking 261 mph (420 km/h).
Furthermore, the Fuxing models are developed by China Railway Corporation without any licensed technology from external rolling stock manufacturers. These locomotives represent the country’s pioneering domestically produced high-speed trains.
4. DB Intercity-Express 3 (Germany): 217 mph
In the realm of high-speed rail, Germany’s DB Intercity-Express (ICE) 3 is among the fastest in the world. The train marvels all rail buffs with its capability of reaching an operational speed of 217 mph (350 km/h).
Manufactured by Siemens and Bombardier, both Deutsche Bahn (DB) and Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), a Dutch-based railway operator, handle the operation of the ICE 3.
5. SNCF TGV (France): 199 mph
France’s TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) has been a pioneer in high-speed rail in Europe since its launch. With a top operational speed of 199 mph (320 km/h), the train is manufactured by Alstom.
Operated by the SNCF, the TGV has been transporting passengers beyond France, extending its networks to other European countries, including Italy, Belgium, Spain, Luxembourg, and Germany.
6. JR Shinkansen (Japan): 199 mph
Japan has long been acknowledged as the leading country in cutting-edge technologies. This is well represented in the locomotive industry, where the East Asian country pioneered the development of a high-speed railway network.
The country’s most renowned Shinkansen is a star in the realm of high-speed rails. The so-called bullet train commenced operation in 1964, running at the speed of 220 km/h. However, the latest models, the E5 and H5 series, possess the capability of hitting a top operating speed of 320 km/h (199 mph).
7. ONCF Al Boraq (Morocco): 199 mph
Next on the fastest trains in the world is the Moroccan Al Boraq. Connecting Casablanca and Tangier, Al Boraq is operated by the Office National des Chemins de Fer du Maroc (ONCF) and marks Africa’s first high-speed train.
On everyday operation, the ONCF Al Boraq runs at 199 mph (320 km/h). But the Moroccan locomotive achieved a speed record, reaching 222 mph (357 km/h).
8. Renfe AVE 103 (Spain): 193 mph
Spain’s AVE 103, also referred to as Series 103 (S103), serves under the operation of Renfe to provide the country’s high-speed service. Since its inception in 1992, the S103 has been connecting major cities like Madrid, Córdoba, and Seville.
When it comes to operational speed, the Renfe AVE 103 reaches an impressive 193 mph (310 km/h). Siemens is the one manufacturing this locomotive.
9. Korail KTX-Sancheon (South Korea): 190 mph
South Korea is more than just its reliable electronics. The country presents the Korea Train Express (KTX) as its high-speed rail service.
Entering service in 2004, the initial model of the KTX was rolling stock, partially built in Korea. However, the current KTX-Sanchoen is a product by Hyundai Rotem, signifying a full domestic manufacture.
South Korea’s KTX-Sancheon showcases an outstanding performance with a maximum velocity of 190 mph (305 km/h).
10. Trenitalia Frecciarossa 1000 (Italy): 186 mph
Italy’s Frecciarossa 1000, or the “Red Arrow,” rounds up our list of the fastest trains in the world. As a co-developed product of a joint venture between Hitachi Rail Italy and Alstom, the train accelerates at a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h).
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