China, October 2026 – Chinese rolling stock manufacturer CRRC officially launched VELLINK on 21 September 2026, introducing a new standardised platform covering both metro and intelligent regional rail vehicles. The platform is designed to support different network requirements through modular train configurations, common technical standards and integrated lifecycle management. CRRC also showcased the brand internationally at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin.
The VELLINK portfolio follows a framework described as "one system, two platforms and eight train models". Its metro range comprises Type A and Type B trains designed for operating speeds of 80 km/h and 120 km/h. The regional rail range includes Type A, Type C and Type D trains capable of reaching 160 km/h, alongside Type D models designed for speeds of up to 200 km/h. The common architecture is intended to support cross-line operations across interconnected urban and regional railway networks.
According to CRRC, the platform is designed to reduce mainline failure rates by 10% and improve operational and maintenance efficiency by 10%. Energy consumption is expected to decrease by more than 10%, while components will achieve a reuse rate of at least 90% and a recyclability rate of at least 95%. Its integrated lifecycle management system covers design, manufacturing, testing, operation and maintenance, with the manufacturer targeting a further 10% reduction in lifecycle operating and maintenance costs.
The first VELLINK regional trains entered passenger service on 22 September 2026 following the opening of Ningbo Metro Line 12, also known as the Xiangshan Line. The initial fleet comprises 18 four-car trainsets developed by CRRC Zhuzhou Locomotive, with a maximum operating speed of 160 km/h. The trains incorporate permanent-magnet synchronous traction systems and lightweight carbon-fibre carbody technology, supporting energy-efficient operations on the line's cross-sea regional railway corridor.
The introduction of VELLINK reflects China's broader effort to standardise rolling stock technologies while integrating vehicle manufacturing, digital systems and long-term maintenance services. By offering a wider range of train configurations under a common technical framework, CRRC aims to address different urban and regional transport requirements while strengthening the international competitiveness of China's railway manufacturing industry.
Source: RailMarket
CRRC Introduces VELLINK Urban Rail Platform With Speeds Up To 200 Km/h
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Standardised rolling stock platforms are becoming increasingly important as cities expand their metro and regional rail networks while seeking to improve operational efficiency and reduce lifecycle costs. China's CRRC has introduced VELLINK, a unified urban rail train platform offering eight vehicle models designed for operating speeds ranging from 80 to 200 km/h.
