CRRC EMUs were recently unveiled for the rail system in Ningbo, a major port city and sub-provincial economic hub in northeastern Zhejiang Province, China.
The trains were jointly developed by Ningbo Rail Transit and CRRC for Lines 10 and 12, marking a new stage in the testing and commissioning process of the city’s urban transit system.
These lines represent China’s first demonstration project for standard Type A commuter trains, which allow a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h—significantly higher than the 80–100 km/h range of existing lines.
The CRRC electric multiple units (EMUs) are designed to be lighter and faster, and their commissioning will help connect the northern and southern areas of Ningbo with the city center, creating a mobility system that allows for a cross-city journey in approximately 60 minutes.
In line with China’s carbon reduction goals, the new trains reduce total energy consumption by approximately 15% compared to conventional commuter trains.
By optimizing the structure and using improved materials, the trains are 4.28 tons lighter—about 2.4% lighter than classic models. The aerodynamic design helps reduce drag by about 5%, and the use of advanced traction technology with permanent magnet synchronous motors reduces traction energy consumption by approximately 14%.
The Ningbo Metro also operates CRRC trains
Ningbo Rail Transit, also known as the Ningbo Metro, is the rail transit system serving the city of Ningbo and its suburban areas.
By January 2026, the system had reached eight operational lines, covering the city’s main areas. The network’s development took place in phases, beginning with Line 1, whose construction began in June 2009 and which opened to the public in May 2014. Subsequently, Line 2 entered service in September 2015, marking the rapid expansion of the urban transport infrastructure.
The most recent line (Line 6) opened to traffic this year and is operated by multiple units developed by CRRC ZELC. In the first phase of the project, 37 fully automated trains were introduced, with a maximum operating speed of 100 km/h. The trains are equipped with a permanent magnet traction system and a separate return conductor system.
The passenger compartments were designed with efficient equipment layout, carefully selected materials, and an ergonomic design focused on comfort.
The overall design of the trains integrates fire safety requirements, environmental protection, noise reduction, modularity, and lightweight construction, resulting in a balance between functionality, safety, and sustainability. These features contribute to improving the travel experience for passengers.
To ensure high-standard operation of Line 6, CRRC has established a dedicated after-sales service team and developed a technical support plan tailored to the line’s operational requirements.
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