Glenn(@GlennLuk):TIL China's HSR planners opted for the more expensive "ballastless" track design. While more expensive by ~30-60% in upfront per-km capital costs, it enables higher performance and significantly reduces maintenance over time. It's widely accepted now that Chinese HSR was built at relatively low cost. What is less appreciated is that it was able to achieve these low costs despite choosing the highest-cost technical specifications e.g. ballastless track + heavy use of elevated viaducts and bridges.

Glenn

@GlennLuk

Joined February 2010

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Glenn@GlennLuk

2026.10.07 15:50

TIL China's HSR planners opted for the more expensive "ballastless" track design. While more expensive by ~30-60% in upfront per-km capital costs, it enables higher performance and significantly reduces maintenance over time. It's widely accepted now that Chinese HSR was built at relatively low cost. What is less appreciated is that it was able to achieve these low costs despite choosing the highest-cost technical specifications e.g. ballastless track + heavy use of elevated viaducts and bridges.