China's rolling-stock maker China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) announced on Feb. 22 that a variable configuration electric multiple unit (EMU), also described as the "Transformer" of EMUs, has passed all 60 tests and is ready for delivery.

Unlike the current power-distributed EMUs requiring operation and maintenance of the entire train, the power car and trailer bodies of the variable configuration EMU can be freely combined depending on passenger flow and can operate at different speeds.

Newly-developed large-capacity longitudinal sleepers with berths on both sides have increased carrying capacity by 50 percent.

Double-deck second-class cars have increased carrying capacity by 33 percent.

Double-deck business cars have increased carrying capacity by 70 percent.

Independent cargo compartments with insulated and reefer containers are added to the lower deck of the dining cars and passenger-freight cars, which enables the train to transport goods.

With an intelligent network control system, passengers can enjoy Wi-Fi coverage on the train, smart food ordering and luggage storage.(Compiled by Liu Jingshan; photos: CRRC)