Recently, "China's high-speed rail" has become a buzzword in international media. The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR)—hailed as "China’s first overseas high-speed rail project"—has officially commenced operations. Meanwhile, China signed its first high-speed rail export contract in Europe with Serbia, and multiple countries expressed interest in Chinese HSR technology during the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation. China’s high-speed rail is now expanding globally, drawing widespread attention from foreign media.

According to Singapore’s Lianhe Zaobao, the G1137 EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) departed from Halim Station in Jakarta, Indonesia, at 4:35 PM on October 17, marking the official launch of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR. With a maximum operating speed of 350 km/h, the journey between Jakarta and Bandung now takes just 46 minutes, ushering Indonesia into the high-speed rail era and symbolizing a major achievement in China-Indonesia Belt and Road cooperation. Indonesian President Joko Widodo stated earlier that the Jakarta-Bandung HSR “represents our efficient, friendly, and integrated public transportation system” and serves as a “symbol of Indonesia’s modernization.”

The Jakarta-Bandung HSR trains feature a streamlined design with silver and red livery. The body is adorned with red polygonal patterns abstracted from the texture of Indonesia’s national treasure, the Komodo dragon, earning the trains the affectionate nickname “Red Komodo” among locals. The cabin seats incorporate gray, red, and blue color schemes inspired by Indonesia’s Borobudur Temple, national flag, and oceans. Each seat is embedded with cloud patterns styled after Indonesia’s UNESCO-listed Batik textile art, reflecting the country’s cultural heritage.

Zhang Fangtao, Chief Designer of the Jakarta-Bandung HSR EMU at CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co., Ltd., explained that the trains—China’s first high-speed EMUs to operate commercially overseas—integrate advanced, mature technologies from the "Fuxing" China Standard EMUs. Tailored to Indonesia’s operating environment and cultural context, the trains combine cutting-edge engineering with localized design, ensuring safety, comfort, and technical excellence.

With a maximum speed of 350 km/h, the Jakarta-Bandung HSR is among the world’s fastest commercially operated high-speed railways. Each EMU consists of 8 cars, offering VIP, first-class, and second-class seating with a total seating capacity of 601 passengers. The trains can also operate in coupled formations.

The EMUs boast advanced intelligent systems. Equipped with over 2,500 monitoring points, they enable real-time tracking, alerts, and diagnostics for all critical systems. Additionally, an earthquake early-warning system automatically receives seismic alerts, instructing drivers to decelerate or perform emergency stops to enhance safety.

The trains incorporate high-standard anti-corrosion designs and protective technologies to withstand Indonesia’s tropical climate of high temperatures, humidity, and salt exposure. A "high-acceleration" mode enhances climbing capabilities, ensuring smooth operation on the Jakarta-Bandung HSR’s challenging terrain.

Passenger comfort is prioritized. To address Indonesia’s humid weather, the air conditioning system includes auxiliary dehumidification, maintaining cabin temperatures below 26°C and humidity under 60%. Seats are equipped with locally tailored charging ports. The trains also feature accessible facilities such as disability-friendly restrooms, Braille signage, and amenities like vending cabinets, coffee machines, and microwaves to enhance the travel experience.

Honrock Rail Transit from Qingdao contributed sunshades and locking systems to the Jakarta-Bandung HSR, supporting China’s high-speed rail in its global journey.