China’s next-generation smart metro train made its official international debut at the 15th InnoTrans rail technology exhibition in Berlin, Germany.
The landmark unveiling at the world’s leading transport technology trade fair introduced a new class ofpublic transport vehiclesdesigned around integrated digital technologies andadvanced intelligent systems.
“By integrating embodied AI, a comprehensive sensing network, proprietary AI algorithms and high-speed communications, the train can perceive, make decisions and interact intelligently, shifting from passively following commands to proactively optimizing operations,”saidChina Science.
The name highlights speed and urban connections
The train has been named VELLINK. The manufacturer says "VEL" is short for velocity, representing operational speed, while "LINK" refers to connecting tracks, data, passengers, and cities.
Lightweight materials reduce total vehicle weight
Engineers built the train using lighter materials and integrated several previously separate systems into single units. These changes have reduced the train's total weight by approximately 18%.
Modern system upgrades lower overall transit energy consumption
The reduction in weight and improved systems lower the train's energy use by more than 10% during regular service compared with older models.
New design features cut full lifespan carbon emissions
According to the developers, the overall design and efficiency improvements are expected to cut the train's total carbon emissions by about 15% across its entire operational lifespan.
Hundreds of onboard sensors monitor operations in real-time
According to a CGTN report, the train is fitted with more than 600 sensors, cameras, and radar units, all linked to an onboard computing system. This network continuously tracks the train's mechanical status and monitors surrounding track conditions in real time.
Artificial intelligence detects mechanical faults before breakdowns occur
Onboard artificial intelligence processes data from the sensors to spot abnormalities. The system is designed to provide early warnings of potential mechanical or electrical faults before failures occur.
Autonomous algorithms guide daily operations without central controllers
Rather than relying only on instructions sent from central control centers, the train uses AI algorithms and high-speed communications to assess its environment and adjust its operations autonomously.
