BEIJING: Artificial intelligence is set to transform the operation of China’s high-speed rail system — the world’s largest — as the country accelerates efforts to modernize its vast railway network, a national political adviser said during this year’s ongoing two sessions.
Zhao Hongwei, chief researcher at the China Academy of Railway Sciences and a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, said AI could help improve train operations, maintenance and safety across the network.
“China’s railway system is shifting from rapid expansion to higher-quality development, and technologies such as artificial intelligence will be an important driver of that transition,” Zhao said in an exclusive interview with China Daily. Zhao said she planned to call for faster integration of AI and other emerging technologies into railway operations during this year’s two sessions — the annual meetings of China’s top legislative and political advisory bodies.
According to Zhao, China’s railway authorities have issued an “AI Plus Railways” action plan to guide the application of artificial intelligence in real-world railway operations.
The initiative explores the use of AI across transport and production scenarios, and a railway-specific large AI model has been released for pilot use, she said.
One example is the growing use of imaging systems along railway tracks. Cameras capture detailed images of passing trains, which can then be analyzed to identify potential problems with key components.
“Artificial intelligence can help detect abnormalities earlier and allow engineers to respond more quickly,” Zhao said.
AI systems are also being used to monitor conditions along railway lines. They can help identify obstacles near tracks or detect animals entering railway corridors, allowing operators to address potential risks before they affect train operations.
Zhao said intelligent technologies are expected to play a larger role in train control and network management.
China has already tested automatic train operation at speeds of 350 kilometers per hour, and future generations of high-speed trains are expected to incorporate more advanced intelligent functions.
These systems could assist drivers in identifying technical issues, improving energy efficiency and supporting operational decisions, she said.
China is also making progress in developing the next generation of high-speed trains. In 2025, prototype testing of the CR450 high-speed train continued, with its technical performance reaching world-leading levels, Zhao said.
Research on key infrastructure technologies for 400 km/h railways has also advanced, while a new 200 km/h power-concentrated train has entered operational testing. At the same time, research into automatic train operation technologies is continuing to deepen.
For 2026, China plans to strengthen research on core technologies and promote more application-oriented innovation. –The Daily Mail-China Daily news exchange item
