Kenya is seeking China loans to extend the 120 Km/H Standard Gauge Railway trains to Kisumu while Japan is set to test its fastest-ever bullet train — capable of reaching 400 kilometres per hour (249 mph).
The ALFA-X version trains began three years ago and were tested on Friday.
Once it enters operation around 2030, it will run at speeds of up to 360 kph (224 mph), making it the world’s fastest bullet train.
It will also outpace China’s Fuxing train, which runs at 10 kph slower despite being designed with the same top speed capabilities.
Its testing debut comes as Japan’s new high-speed Shinkansen N700S continues tests that began just over a year ago.
That model will enter operation in 2020, but its maximum speeds of 300 kph — the same as other N700 series trains — will be easily surpassed by the ALFA-X.
Five Things to Know About the Alfa-X
- Stopping is just as important. The new bullet train will have air brakes on the roof and also use magnetic plates near the rails to slow down, in addition to conventional brakes.
- The train will have dampers and air suspension to keep it stable when traversing curves, maintaining its balance and comfort for passengers.
- Alfa-X stands for “Advanced Labs for Frontline Activity in rail eXperimentation.”
- The new train is based on JR’s E5 platform, which already operates on major routes in Japan.
- JR East will link data between the train, control center, maintenance facilities and staff to monitor performance and keep the trains operating at optimal levels.