The world's first subway train made of carbon fiber – CETROVO 1.0 Carbon Star Express – has begun transporting passengers in Qingdao, Shandong Province, China.
Developed by CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co, the vehicle is 11% lighter than traditional trains of similar size, reducing energy consumption by 7%. As a result, annual carbon dioxide emissions are reduced by approximately 130 tons, equivalent to creating 6,7 hectares of forest.
The train's main structure is made of carbon fiber, which is five times stronger than steel and only 25% of its weight. This material ensures high durability, minimizes vibrations and increases passenger comfort.
Qingdao Metro Line 1, with a length of 60 km and 41 stations, is a key transportation corridor in the city. Thanks to the use of innovative materials, the train exhibits increased wear resistance, which is especially important for megacities with dynamic development.
The development of CETROVO 1.0 began in 2021, and its implementation was preceded by more than 50 technical evaluations and comprehensive tests. In June 2024, the train reached a maximum speed of 140 km/h, which is significantly higher than the average speed of Chinese subways - 80 km/h.
The automated control system allows for continuous operation, minimizing maintenance costs. Intelligent safety systems, including early collision warning and obstacle detection, ensure automatic stop in the event of an emergency.
According to CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co, the use of carbon trains not only meets the needs of rapid public transportation, but also contributes to a significant reduction in environmental impact.