(ANN/THE CHINA DAILY) – China has introduced the world’s first commercially operational metro train constructed with carbon fibre materials, representing a significant advancement in eco-friendly urban transportation technology.
Developed collaboratively by CRRC Qingdao Sifang and Qingdao Metro, the CETROVO 1.0 train is designed to reduce both weight and energy consumption, setting the stage for a greener future in subway travel.
The CETROVO 1.0 incorporates carbon fibre composites, renowned for their superior strength-to-weight ratio.
“By using this ‘king’ of new materials, the train achieves an impressive 11 per cent weight reduction compared to traditional metal models,” said Liu Jinzhu, a senior designer at CRRC Qingdao Sifang.
That translates to a lighter body, with the weight savings directly translating into a seven per cent reduction in energy consumption, leading to an annual decrease of 130 metric tonnes of carbon emissions.
The environmental benefit is equivalent to planting roughly 6.7 hectares of forest. Despite its lighter frame, the carbon fibre construction doesn’t compromise on strength.
Liu said the components offer superior resistance to impact and fatigue compared to traditional metals, ultimately extending the train’s life span. The reduced weight also translates to less wear on wheels and rails, minimizing maintenance requirements.
The CETROVO 1.0 also incorporates advanced digital twin technology through an intelligent operation platform called SmartCare. The system enables the train to self-diagnose and detect potential problems, ensuring safe and efficient operation while minimising maintenance costs, which are projected to be 22 per cent lower over the train’s life cycle.
Lyu Xiaojun, another senior designer at CRRC Qingdao Sifang, highlighted the critical role of minimizing energy consumption and carbon emissions in China’s urban rail sector.
“Lightweight vehicles are a key technology for developing eco-friendly and low-carbon rail vehicles,” Lyu said, adding that carbon fibre, with its light weight and high strength, as well as its fatigue and corrosion resistance, is an ideal material for the purpose.
“The introduction of the new train marks a significant shift from metal to carbon fibre composite materials, breaking through the limitations of traditional structures and advancing China’s metro train technology to new heights,” Lyu said.
“This innovation is crucial for promoting the green transformation of urban rail transit and achieving the industry’s dual carbon goals.”
