[Korea.net News, Science / Tech, January 14 2008] 'Tilting train' completes 20,000km of test runs

The cutting-edge “tilting train” developed with homegrown technology has completed 20,000 km in test runs.

The Construction and Transportation Ministry announced Sunday that the train has undergone a number of tests since March last year.

A tilting train utilizes a mechanism enabling rolling stock to better navigate curves on railroad tracks. While normal trains must reduce speed to keep from derailing, a tilting train can maintain speed, thereby saving time.

The tilting train has an electric multi-unit style with acceleration and lateral acceleration sensors that detect curve lines. These allow the vehicle to tilt up to eight degrees with its control system.

“The tilting train on the Honam Line (the Jeolla provinces) traveled 160 km/h, which is the fastest rail speed in the country aside from high-speed bullet trains,” a ministry official said.