China's bullet train nears debut as US project faces fresh setbacks

China is on the verge of launching its new CR450 bullet train, capable of reaching speeds of 400 km/h (250 mph), marking a significant advancement in high-speed rail technology. Developed by the China Academy of Railway Sciences and manufactured by CRRC, the CR450 incorporates innovative aerodynamic designs inspired by fast-flying birds to reduce air resistance by about 2.6 percent at the front and 22 percent under the train’s undercarriage. Despite the speed increase from 350 km/h to 400 km/h, the train maintains energy efficiency comparable to the existing CR400 Fuxing model. Additionally, the CR450 features a newly developed braking system that can safely stop the train from 250 mph to zero within 6.5 kilometers (4 miles), using advanced heat-resistant brake materials validated through extensive testing. While China accelerates its high-speed rail development, expanding a network that already covers 48,000 kilometers and connects most major cities, the United States is retreating from similar