ShareJapans high-speed bullet trains are famous for speeding across the countrybut China wants to set a new world record for the fastest electric passenger rail. Prototype tests are reportedly underway on the nations upcoming line of CR450 trains, and according to the Ministry of Transport, they already can reach top test speeds as fast as 281 mph.The CR450 is the latest in Chinas line of Fuxing (Rejuvenation) electric trains, and is expected to run at around 248.5 mph, surpassing the current CR400 trains 217 mph operational speeds. For comparison, Japans Shinkansen electric trains typically max out at 186 mph, and while a modified version of Frances Train Grande Vitesse (TGV) maintains the world record for fastest wheeled train (357.2 mph), its standard version zips along at around 200 mph.The eight-car CR450 design relies on whats known as a water-cooled advanced permanent-magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) system that allows at least a 3 percent increase in energy conversion efficiency compared to previous models. Like all of Chinas other passenger rails, the trains will receive power through the countrys network of 25kV 50Hz AC overhead catenary lines. They will also feature a storage battery array capable of providing the CR450 with a 110V DC power source. Each train houses over 4,000 sensors to monitor all the crucial moving parts, including its fire detection systems, car body, emergency braking, and pantographthe roof-mounted device that converts electricity from catenary line to the train itself.A video provided by CCTV Get the Popular Science newsletter Breakthroughs, discoveries, and DIY tips sent every weekday. By signing up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.While reducing the weight, we must ensure that its strength does not decrease, and we even need to increase its strength because of the higher speed, Chen Can, an associate researcher at the China Academy of Railway Sciences (CARS) Locomotive and Vehicle Research Institute, explained in the video. Its just like a person who wants to slim down while building strength. This involves structural changes and material innovations.As Interesting Engineering noted, the CR450 prototypes have so far passed static and low-speed dynamic tests for noise control, braking, and traction, with developers hoping to increase speeds over successive trial phases.The CR450 is expected to be delivered to China Railway by the end of the year, with a second line slated for 2027 that will run the 181 mi between the cities of Chengdu and Chongqing in under 50 minutes.