Chinese high-speed train manufacturer CSR Qingdao Sifang (CSR Sifang) has signed a series of co-operation agreements with three UK universities to co-establish a centre for railway research and development (R&D) in the country.

These agreements were signed with Imperial College London, the University of Southampton and the University of Birmingham at the Railtex 2015 exhibition at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, UK.

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"The centre will focus on the research on the ‘connectivity’ technology and standard normative system of the international rail transit."

The China-UK Joint Research and Development Center for Rail Transit Technology centre will undertake research in variety of areas related to rolling stock development for high-speed trains and metros, including air-conditioning and energy systems integration.

CSR Sifang chief engineer Liang Jianying said: "The centre will focus on the research on the ‘connectivity’ technology and standard normative system of the international rail transit, cultivate international talents and build a highland that brings the new technologies of the high-speed railway together in Europe."

Using latest manufacturing techniques, researchers aim to develop trains that are made from advanced materials and fewer components, making them lighter and more fuel-efficient.

The research between Birmingham and CSR Sifang will involve many non-railway specific disciplines, such as developments in air conditioning and energy system integration.

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Additionally, there will be a significant increase in the number of Chinese engineers being taught and graduating in railway engineering and risk management at the university.

China’s high-speed railway mileage has currently exceeded 16,000km, accounting for more than 60% of the world operation mileage and its inventory of high-speed trains has reached over 1,500 train sets.