The world’s first carbon fiber subway

The world’s first carbon fiber subway, CETROVO 1.0 Carbon Star Express, enters service in China, Interesting Engineering reported on January 12. Operating on metro line No. 1 in Qingdao, East China’s Shandong province, the train began transporting passengers on January 10. Independently developed by Chinese companies, CETROVO 1.0 marks a groundbreaking revolution in ship technology. The ship’s load-bearing structure (such as the body and bogie) is made primarily of carbon fiber, making the vehicle lighter and more fuel efficient than conventional metal ships.

Metro Line 1 is nearly 60 km long with 51 stations and serves as the key north-south route in Qingdao. According to the train developer, CRRC Qingdao Sifang company, CETROVO 1.0 is 11% lighter than a conventional train of the same size. The ship can operate with 7% less energy, helping to cut 130 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, equivalent to planting 6.7 hectares of trees. Crystalline carbon fibers are very thin and durable, are linked chains of carbon atoms that can be shaped in a variety of shapes. Its high stiffness and tensile strength make carbon fiber an ideal material for manufacturing vehicle bodies or other structural parts.

Carbon fiber is 5 times stronger than steel but weighs only 25% of the weight of steel, so it is very suitable for the production of ultra-light rail vehicles. Vessels made from carbon fiber are relatively more durable than steel vessels, providing excellent impact resistance and a long lifespan. This type of train also has the advantage of less vibration, giving passengers a smoother experience. Development of the CETROVO 1.0 Carbon Star Express began in 2021. After many years of research and development, the train entered testing from July to December 2024. In June 2024, the train reached a speed of 140 km/h, higher than the average speed of 80 km/h of Chinese subways.

During the testing phase, the vessel completed more than 50 technical assessments and comprehensive tests to confirm performance. At the end of 2024, the ship passed a passenger test and was licensed to operate on January 5. The train is also fully automated, meaning the vehicle can operate longer with less downtime than a manned train. ETROVO 1.0 Carbon Star Express has many smart safety equipment, including an anti-collision early warning system and an obstacle detection system that can automatically stop the train in an emergency.

The ETROVO 1.0 Carbon Star Express will not only play a key role in meeting China’s public transport needs but also help reduce emissions associated with the railway industry. The benefits of ships go beyond improved performance and long-term sustainability.