The world’s first carbon fibre subway train, CETROVO 1.0 Carbon Star Express, has made its debut on the tracks in Qingdao, China. This innovation promises to revolutionize the way subway systems operate and is stronger, safer, and more environmentally friendly than traditional metal trains.
Developed through a collaboration between Qingdao Metro Group and CRRC Sifang Co. the Cetrovo 1.0 subway train is constructed primarily from carbon fiber composites. These materials are known for their lightweight and high-strength properties, making them ideal for building durable, efficient, and eco-friendly vehicles.
Carbon fibre, composed of thin strands of crystalline carbon filaments, is renowned for its strength-to-weight ratio. It is about five times stronger than steel but only 25% of its weight, which makes it a superior choice for the construction of vehicles. When used in the Cetrovo 1.0, carbon fibre not only reduces the train’s weight but also enhances its structural longevity and impact resistance.
By utilizing carbon fibre for the train’s primary load-bearing structures, including the body and trucks, the weight of the train has been reduced by 25% compared to traditional steel and aluminum trains. The truck, which is the chassis that holds the wheels, axles, and suspension, has achieved a significant 50% weight reduction.
These changes contribute to an 11% overall decrease in the train’s total weight, resulting in reduced energy consumption. The Cetrovo 1.0 will consume 7% less energy than its traditional counterparts, helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 130 tons annually. This reduction is equivalent to the environmental benefit of planting around 6.7 hectares (100 acres) of trees.
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Beyond its environmental benefits, the Cetrovo 1.0 provides a smoother and quieter ride. Carbon fiber’s excellent vibration-damping properties contribute to reduced noise and a more comfortable passenger experience. The train’s design ensures a more stable ride, minimizing the disturbances typically caused by metal tracks and vehicles.
The Cetrovo 1.0 also incorporates innovative technology to optimize its operation. Equipped with the SmartCare intelligent maintenance platform, the train continuously monitors its health and diagnostics in real time. This system is designed to reduce maintenance costs by 22%, making the subway not only greener but also more cost-efficient.
Operating on Metro Line 1 in Qingdao, which stretches 37.2 miles and serves as a major north-south transportation route, the Cetrovo 1.0 subway will help meet the growing demand for sustainable and efficient mass transit in China. Line 1, which has 41 stations, is a key part of the city’s metro network, and the addition of this carbon fibre train will play a crucial role in modernizing the city’s public transport system.
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The train also features several safety innovations, including an anti-collision early warning system and obstacle detection technology that can automatically stop the train in the event of an emergency. Additionally, it is fully automated, allowing for longer operating hours and fewer maintenance downtimes than traditional manned trains.
The development of the Cetrovo 1.0 began in 2021, with extensive research and testing carried out over the past few years. Between July and December of 2024, the train underwent over 50 technical evaluations and system-to-vehicle tests.
During this phase, the train reached impressive speeds of 87 mph (140 km/h), which surpasses the average speed of 49.7 mph (80 km/h) typical for Chinese metro systems. With these successful tests completed, the Cetrovo 1.0 was approved for passenger service, officially launched on January 10, 2025.
