The World’s Fastest High-Speed Trains in 2025

As manufacturers and operators continue to invest in faster and more efficient rail technologies, the increasing speed of high-speed trains represents progress, sustainability, and innovation.

In this article, we take a look at some of the fastest trains in the world in 2025.

CR450 High-Speed Train (China)

At the end of 2025, China reinforced its position as a global leader in high-speed rail with the unveiling of the CR450. Designed and built by CRRC, this model will be operated by China Railway High-speed (CRH).

During testing, the CR450 reached a maximum speed of 453 km/h (281 mph), earning it the title of the fastest high-speed train in the world. In commercial operation, it is designed to run at a speed of 400 km/h (249 mph).

Shanghai Maglev (China)

The Shanghai Maglev uses magnetic levitation technology to operate at a top speed of 460 km/h (286 mph).

Though its commercial speed is slightly higher than the CR450’s, it is limited to a single 30-kilometre line connecting Shanghai Pudong International Airport to the city’s outskirts.

As it doesn’t rely on traditional wheels-on-rails technology, it is not considered a conventional high-speed train. However, since its launch in 2004, the Shanghai Maglev has set a benchmark for rail engineering and travel speeds.

CR400 Fuxing (China)

As a predecessor to the CR450, the CR400 Fuxing high-speed train has been a symbol of China’s success in high-speed rail since 2018.

With an operational speed of 350 km/h (217 mph), these trains connect major cities across China, reducing travel times and enhancing connectivity.

TGV (France)

France’s iconic Train à Grande Vitesse (TGV) has an operational speed of 320 km/h (198 mph). Renowned for its sleek design and reliability, the TGV is a major player in European high-speed rail travel.

These trains are built by Alstom. The latest model — the TGV M — is set to enter service on the national network in the second half of 2025.

Shinkansen E5 and E6 Series (Japan)

Japan’s Shinkansen trains, including the E5 and E6 series, operate at speeds of 320 km/h (198 mph).

Notably, in the USA, Amtrak is also looking to introduce the Shinkansen N700 bullet train, to operate between Dallas and Houston in Texas, covering the 240-mile connection at speeds of up to 205 miles per hour.

AVE Class 103 (Spain)

Spain’s AVE Class 103 trains reach operational speeds of 310 km/h (193 mph), connecting major cities and attracting tourists with their efficiency and comfort.

These trains are operated by Renfe, Spain’s national rail operator. The Class 103 units were manufactured by Siemens as part of its Velaro family.

KTX Series (South Korea)

South Korea’s Korea Train Express (KTX) models, including KTX-I, KTX-II, and KTX-III, operate at speeds of 305 km/h (190 mph), linking key cities across the nation.

ETR 1000 Frecciarossa (Italy)

Italy’s Frecciarossa 1000, also known as the ETR 1000 has an operational speed of 300 km/h (186 mph).

The model is manufactured by Hitachi Rail and now also operates in France and Spain.

The latest of these vehicles was displayed at InnoTrans 2024 in Berlin.

Eurostar e320 (United Kingdom/Europe)

Connecting London with cities in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, the Eurostar e320 operates at speeds of 320 km/h (198 mph).

Eurostar operates 17 e320 high-speed trains, built by Siemens Mobility. The operator has also recently announced plans to invest in up to 50 new trains following growth in 2024.

Al Boraq (Morocco)

Africa’s first high-speed train, Al Boraq, operates at speeds of 320 km/h (198 mph). It has revolutionised travel in Morocco, connecting Tangier and Casablanca in just over two hours.