Development began in early 2008 during the research of the CRH2-300, which was later known as the CRH2C. CSR Corporation conducted over 1,000 technical tests across 17 specific areas, including dynamic performance, pantograph-catenary current collection, aerodynamics, and traction performance. These studies enabled CSR to develop technology that allowed for an increased maximum speed, and the findings were incorporated into the designs for the new-generation high-speed train. CSR presented more than 20 design variations. After further optimization, simulation and testing, the final design was published in an official conference held by Sifang on April 12, 2010 with significant changes to traction system, internal amenities and exterior carbody design. A train model was exhibited in May at the China Railway Pavilion in the Shanghai World Expo Park. In September 2009, Ministry of Railways awarded a contract for one hundred 16-car and forty 8-car new-generation high-speed trains from
CSR Sifang Locomotive & Rolling Stock in a contract worth ¥45 billion (US$6.64 billion).
Technical features . According to CSR, the overall design of CRH380A reflects ten major goals. • Advanced noise control technology. By reducing sources of noise and adopting new sound absorbing and insulating materials, CSR has been able to control noise inside the train. The noise level is at 67 dB - 69 dB when running at , which is similar to the
CRH2A running at . • High-performance traction system, with YQ-365 motors manufactured by CSR Zhuzhou Electric Co., Ltd and CI11 Traction converters by
Zhuzhou CSR Times Electric. The CRH380A has a new power unit configuration to maximize traction power. This allows the train to accelerate to in 7 minutes. • Regenerative braking with a maximum energy feedback rate of 95%. With each stop nearly 800
kWh of electric power can be fed back to the electric grid. ==Variants==