K-High-Speed Rail Begins First Overseas Commercial Operation...Runs 1,020km in Uzbekistan

Tashkent-Khiva 1,020km Route Cuts Travel Time in Half
Operates at 250 km/h with Desert-Optimized Design
Participation from 600 Suppliers... Foundation for K-Rail Exports

Domestic high-speed rail vehicles have entered commercial operation overseas for the first time. This marks the first time that the export of a Korean high-speed train has actually led to regular commercial service.

The image of the Uzbekistan high-speed train that has started commercial operation locally. Hyundai Rotem

On May 6, Hyundai Rotem announced that it has begun commercial operation of new high-speed trains in Uzbekistan. The trains have been deployed on a route of approximately 1,020 kilometers, connecting the capital Tashkent and the western city of Khiva. This is the country’s longest railway line and a key section linking major hubs along the Silk Road.

The vehicles are based on the distributed power high-speed train 'KTX-Eum (EMU-260)'. They were developed specifically for local conditions, utilizing technology proven in Korea and incorporating customized features such as dustproof design to withstand extreme heat and desert environments.

The introduction of high-speed trains is expected to significantly reduce travel time. The journey is anticipated to be shortened to about 7 hours, roughly half the previous duration. Khiva is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, with a rapidly increasing number of international visitors in recent years.

This project is also considered a meaningful achievement for the domestic high-speed rail industry ecosystem. Korean high-speed trains have been commercialized through more than 20 years of joint research and development between the public and private sectors, and this overseas operation demonstrates both technological prowess and supply chain competitiveness.

Notably, about 600 domestic parts suppliers participated in this project. The collaborative system, spanning from vehicle manufacturing and delivery to handover in the local market, has strengthened trust in the global market by culminating in actual operation.

In 2024, Hyundai Rotem signed a supply contract with Uzbekistan Railways, marking the first overseas venture for Korean high-speed trains. The vehicles operate at speeds of up to 250 km/h and feature improved acceleration and deceleration performance compared to conventional concentrated power trains. Depending on the configuration, they can accommodate up to 389 passengers and offer three levels of seating: VIP, business, and economy.

A representative from Hyundai Rotem stated, "We will ensure operational stability and take responsibility for maintenance until the project is completed," adding, "By expanding the export of Korean high-speed trains, we aim to broaden the growth foundation of the K-rail industry."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.