China has completed an 11.18-kilometre-long underwater tunnel beneath the Yangtze River as part of the Chongming-Taicang Yangtze River tunnel project. The total length of the tunnel section is 14.25 kilometres, connecting Chongming District in Shanghai with Taicang in Jiangsu Province. The tunnel was constructed using the shield tunnelling machine named “Linghang.” Once operational, the tunnel will allow bullet trains to travel at speeds of up to 350 kilometres per hour.
Yangtze River Underwater Tunnel
The underwater tunnel is a segment of the Chongming-Taicang Yangtze River tunnel, designed to facilitate high-speed rail connectivity between Shanghai and Jiangsu. The 11.18-kilometre portion runs beneath the Yangtze River, making it one of the longest underwater tunnels for high-speed trains in the world. The shield tunnelling method used involves a mechanised tunnel boring machine that supports the tunnel face during excavation.
CR450 Bullet Train Specifications
The CR450 bullet train, unveiled in 2024, is recognised as the world’s fastest bullet train. It has achieved a top speed of 453 kilometres per hour during trials and a relative passing speed of 896 kilometres per hour. Developed by CRRC Changchun Railway Vehicles and CRRC Sifang Co. Ltd., the train features an extended nose cone length of 15 metres for improved aerodynamics. It can accelerate from zero to 350 kilometres per hour in 4 minutes and 40 seconds.
Design Enhancements of CR450
The CR450 train incorporates aerodynamic and structural improvements, including fully enclosed bogies and lowered skirt panels to reduce air resistance. The train’s height has been reduced by 20 centimetres, and its weight has been decreased by 50 tonnes. These modifications have resulted in a 22 per cent reduction in overall resistance, enhancing speed and energy efficiency.
Last Modified: April 21, 2026