Chinese AI bullet train to be operational by year-end

Authorities building China's first high-speed train designed to be both operated and serviced by artificial intelligence say they intend to have the first line operational before the end of this year, reports huanqiu.com. Linking Beijing with the city of Zhangjiakou in neighboring Hebei Province, the new AI-guided trains are expected to run at speeds of 350 kilometers per hour, making them the fastest AI bullet trains in the world.

A mechanic inspects a high-speed train during the Spring Festival travel rush, the "Chunyun," at a maintenance station in Kunming, Yunnan province, January 21, 2019. [File Photo:IC]

Crews are currently in the process of setting up a 1,300-meter overhead line system on the first section of the rail link. The laying of the 174 kilometers of track is expected to be completed within the next 3 months, with testing planned through the 2nd half of 2019.

The AI-driven trains are going to incorporate cutting-edge technology, including the Beidou Navigation System, sensor technology and AI robots. All the trains on the line are going to run autonomously.

"Self-driving technology has reduced a lot of the workload for the train conductor, meaning the driver is free to concentrate on other areas, such as the overall safety and security of the trains," said Jiang Min, deputy chief engineer with the China Railway and Signal Communication Research and Design Institute Group.

On top of being self-driving, the trains are also going have a number of AI-supported features, including robots which will be able to help passangers with their luggage.

The Beijing-Zhangjiakou route is a critical part of the transportation system for the 2022 Winter Olympics.