Published : 2025-12-22
On 22 December 2007, China's first domestically produced "Hexie" (和諧號) electric multiple unit (EMU), aka CRH2-300, capable of reaching speeds of 300 km/h, rolled off the production line, making China one of the few countries in the world capable of independently developing 300 km/h EMUs.
The CRH2-300 was developed on the basis of introducing, digesting and absorbing foreign technology platforms for 200 km/h EMUs. Compared to the latter, the former has more abundant power; the requirements for the train's airtightness, operational stability, and aerodynamic performance are higher; and the technical difficulty is also more complex.
The CRH2-300 adopts world-class advanced technologies such as lightweight aluminium alloy car bodies, high-speed bogies, high-speed pantographs, as well as an AC drive system and integrated fibre-optic network control.
Among these, the large-section hollow-profile aluminium alloy car body brings the weight of each car body to approximately seven tonnes, with the overall lightweight design reaching an advanced world-class level and possessing superior energy-saving and environmentally-friendly properties.
To further accommodate passengers' travel habits, the CRH2-300 is also equipped with features such as a new ventilation system, a multimedia audio-visual system, a vacuum toilet and sanitation system, a personalised service dining area, and accessible toilets for disabled passengers, highlighting the user-friendly design features with Chinese characteristics.
To further improve smoothness and comfort when operating at high speeds, the CRH2-300 is also equipped with devices such as a semi-active suspension system, an emergency ventilation system, and inter-car dampers.
After the first Hexie (EMU) train rolled off the production line, it quickly entered mass production and was delivered in succession. After undergoing a series of tests, it was officially put into operation on the Beijing-Tianjin Intercity Railway on the eve of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
