China's first fully autonomous standard intelligent metro train —  independently developed by CRRC Corporation Limited (CRRC) and boasting complete intellectual property ownership — made its debut on Sept 18.

The train, designed for the Beijing-Xiong'an Express Line, is widely said to represent a major breakthrough in China's regional rail transit equipment — marking the successful demonstration of standardized, intelligent and eco-friendly mass transit technology.

The train drew significant attention from industry professionals and the public. As part of a national initiative to establish Chinese standards, products and brands in regional rail transit, CRRC has led the development of this series of standardized intelligent trains.

This model, with a maximum speed of 200 kilometers per hour, belongs to the Type D regional train category.

According to Zhu Jianhua, senior chief designer at CRRC Sifang, the train adheres to a comprehensive Chinese standard system, with domestic technical standards accounting for 88 percent of its design.

It embodies innovation in "intelligence, digitalization, modularity, sustainability and integrated vehicle-ground coordination" —  incorporating over 10 core technologies that enhance smart operations, safety, comfort, energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Equipped with GoA4-grade full autonomous driving capabilities, it is the first regional train in China capable of reaching 200 km/h without human intervention, making it one of the world's fastest fully automated rail vehicles.

The train features a high-precision redundant sensing system that enables millisecond-level responses to common malfunctions. It also utilizes digital twin technology and AI algorithms to form a sophisticated smart maintenance system — significantly improving fault predictions and maintenance decision-making.

Designed for rapid, high-capacity transportation between urban centers and suburban areas, this Chinese standard intelligent regional train will support the ongoing development of urbanization and metropolitan clusters across the country.

Its introduction is set to enhance the scale and standardization of China's regional rail transit industry, while strengthening its global competitiveness.

China's first fully autonomous standard intelligent metro train makes its debut at the MetroTrans 2025 in Qingdao on Sept 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]