Top 10 Fastest Trains in the World, Ranked

A ranked look at the world’s fastest trains, from record-breaking maglev prototypes to top commercial high-speed models transforming global mobility (image source)

In an era where nations compete on innovation, efficiency and engineering prestige, high-speed rail remains one of the clearest markers of technological ambition. From magnetic-levitation test marvels to commercially proven wheel-on-rail workhorses, today’s fastest trains embody decades of research, infrastructure investment and aerodynamic mastery.

Below is a ranked snapshot of the world’s speed leaders, combining verified commercial performance with globally recognised test records.

1. Shanghai Maglev — 431 km/h (commercial)

Still unmatched in daily operations, the Shanghai Maglev remains the fastest passenger service in the world, riding magnetic levitation to eliminate wheel friction.

2. L0 Series Maglev, Japan — 600+ km/h (test)

A cutting-edge experimental platform that has shattered speed records and previewed the future of ultra-rapid intercity travel.

3. CR400 “Fuxing”, China — 350 km/h (commercial)

China’s flagship high-speed model, designed for long-distance reliability on the world’s most expansive fast-rail network.

4. TGV, France — 574.8 km/h (test); 320 km/h (commercial)

Europe’s pioneering high-speed system, holder of one of history’s most iconic rail records.

5. Frecciarossa 1000, Italy — 300–360 km/h (commercial range)

Italy’s premium high-speed fleet, built for power, comfort and aerodynamic stability.

6. AVE, Spain — 310 km/h (commercial)

A backbone of Iberian mobility, connecting major cities with consistent high-speed performance.

7. ICE 3, Germany — 300 km/h (commercial)

A German engineering mainstay known for efficiency, precision and reliable cross-border operations.

8. AGV Alstom — up to 360 km/h (design/test)

Europe’s advanced articulated train platform, noted for lightweight construction and energy-efficient performance.

9. CRH380A, China — around 380 km/h (test/development)

An earlier generation Chinese model that pushed the boundaries of domestic high-speed capability.

10. Shinkansen, Japan — up to 320 km/h (commercial)

The legendary bullet train: globally recognised for unmatched safety, punctuality and operational discipline.

Maglev technology dominates the top of the table, as friction-free levitation enables unprecedented test speeds. The L0 Series leads experimental research, while Shanghai holds the commercial crown. Conventional high-speed leaders such as the CR400, TGV and Frecciarossa prove that scalable, reliable fast rail can transform national mobility.

Beyond headline test figures, sustained commercial speed is what reshapes economies. Faster intercity travel boosts productivity, cuts regional travel times and competes directly with short-haul aviation. Infrastructure, signalling and network design matter just as much as raw top speed.

From record-breaking maglev prototypes to dependable fleets moving millions each year, the world’s fastest trains represent both imagination and practical transport policy. As new routes emerge and maglev projects inch closer to commercial reality, the global leaderboard is set for regular upheaval.