Tech & Sci
15:13, 12-Sep-2017
China Footprint: Speeding ahead in the tech stakes
["china"]
Share
Copied
Nothing has changed China more than technology. Its embrace has shrunk a massive country, morphing once far-flung villages into connected mega cities.
And when considering China’s rise, there isn’t a more fitting example than the bullet train. Ten years ago, China didn’t have a single high-speed train. Now it has the world’s fastest and largest railway network.
It's thanks in large part to researchers like Guo Dilong at Beijing’s Advanced Railway Mechanics Center, where workers are constantly looking for ways to make trains more aerodynamic.
Their work began in 2003. Since then, they’ve increased trains' speed by 100 kilometers an hour. The hope is that one day trains will be able to travel almost as fast as airplanes.
"Our trains are better than those in other countries. They’re more powerful, quieter and have less friction. This is the result of our innovation,” said Guo.
China’s high speed train is moving at world’s highest speed. /Xinhua Photo
China’s high speed train is moving at world’s highest speed. /Xinhua Photo
Labs across the country are focused on ways to push technology to new limits.
In a few years, China has built entirely new industries - on the ground, in the skies, and in space.
In June, the country showed off the first Chinese-built passenger jetliner. And since 2003, China has sent a man into space, landed a rover on the moon and began work on a massive space station. All of it is possible because of China’s ability to pour billions of dollars into the cause.
"China can gather all the resources and has the power to do big things. This is decided by the Chinese system and the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party. It provides us a perfect stage to showcase our knowledge and realize our dreams." Wu Pingbo, professor at the State Key Lab. Of Fraction Power says.
Still, it has had setbacks. Critics say China relies at times on Western technology or parts, and accidents and mistakes had slowed progress. Yet, workers push ahead. For Guo, it is about pride in his country and his work.
“Every day I drive by a viaduct on my way to the lab. I can see the high-speed trains passing by me. I often tell my child: I'm part of the invention of the Chinese high-speed trains. My child is happy, and I'm proud too. I think all my work has made a difference.”
He’s part of a movement changing China at record speeds.
Previous episodes: