[Edaily Reporter LEE DAWON ] Korea Railroad Corporation (Korail) is set to begin manufacturing the “EMU-370,” the nation’s fastest next-generation high-speed train capable of reaching 370 km/h, in collaboration with HYUNDAI ROTEM(064350).

Korail announced on the 16th that it had held an “EMU-370 16-Car Project Kickoff Meeting” the previous day at HYUNDAI ROTEM’s Changwon Plant to discuss plans for introducing the next-generation high-speed train.

About 40 people, including representatives from Korail and HYUNDAI ROTEM, the train manufacturer, attended the meeting. They reviewed the train manufacturing schedule and the status of production facilities, and discussed the project execution team, design direction, and quality assurance measures.

The introduction of the EMU-370 is part of the government’s policy to “introduce a next-generation high-speed railway capable of 400 km/h,” which is being promoted as a national priority. Along with introducing the new trains, Korail plans to secure technical capabilities in the areas of high-speed railway operation and maintenance.

Each EMU-370 train is planned to consist of 16 cars. It will operate at a maximum speed of 370 km/h during actual commercial service, while its design speed is 400 km/h.

The new trains will be the first to feature the “Intelligent Energy-Saving Train Automatic Control System (IEOS).” This technology automatically controls the train according to optimal operating patterns calculated for each track, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing energy consumption.

Standards for ride comfort will also be strengthened. The design will incorporate conditions to ensure the train can operate even in extreme weather, and the latest maintenance technologies will be applied.

The cabin layout and design will also be updated. Dedicated first-class compartments will be provided, and space for luggage storage will be expanded. Aerodynamic elements will be incorporated into the exterior of the cars, and the latest design trends will be applied to the interiors.

Cha Jae-hwan, Head of KORAIL’s Rolling Stock Division, stated, “This is a crucial project in preparation for the era of Korea’s fastest high-speed rail,” adding, “We will thoroughly manage every step of the manufacturing process to ensure the timely introduction of safe and convenient high-speed trains.”