Railway Train Numbering to Be Adjusted, New X-Prefix Added for Higher-Speed EMUs

According to the China State Railway Group Co., Ltd., train numbers nationwide will be adjusted in two batches, in late November and late December. Among the changes, a new X-prefix is being added, mainly for CR-series EMU trains with a maximum operating speed of 350 km/h or above. An official from the Transport Department of the China State Railway Group explained that X is read as "xin" ("new"), signifying CR-series EMUs operating at 350 km/h or above, with the implied meaning of "new speed, new products." Train numbers will range from X1 to X9998. The reform will be accompanied by the implementation of a revised Regulations on Train Number Arrangement. The number of prefixes for EMU passenger trains will increase from four to seven, and the number of available train numbers will grow by nearly 40%. After the changes, train routes and operating schedules will still follow the current operation chart. (Xinhua)