China Unveils VELLINK: The First Embodied AI Digital Metro Train
CRRC Changchun has unveiled VELLINK, China's first embodied AI digital metro train, which features active operational optimization and smart scheduling via custom AI models. The train integrates advanced sensor networks, self-developed AI algorithms, and high-speed communication technologies to transition from passive command execution to proactive operational management. This development represents a significant integration of artificial intelligence and rail transit, showcasing advanced autonomous operations, lightweight materials, and energy efficiency. It sets a new benchmark for smart, green public transportation systems by reducing carbon emissions and enhancing overall operational reliability. VELLINK reduces control hosts by 50% and wiring by 30% through a functional domain architecture, while achieving an overall weight reduction of about 18% via lightweight materials like carbon fiber and magnesium-aluminum alloys. It is powered by a permanent magnet traction system and a silicon carbide high-efficiency converter, delivering a comprehensive energy-saving rate of over 10%.
## BACKGROUND
Embodied AI refers to intelligent systems with a physical body that interact dynamically with their environment, combining perception, action, and cognition. In rail transit applications, this involves utilizing multimodal perception large models and edge computing platforms to enable trains to sense, analyze, and react to track and environmental conditions in real time.