Swiss citizen David Feng spoke “at home” in Shanghai — in an event supported by Swissnex — the Swiss global network connecting Switzerland and the world in education, research and innovation — as well as organised by China Crossroads.
A Swiss Look at the Chinese HSR Network
The talk was given by David Feng, who took a look at China’s railway network from Swiss views, fusing views and facts of two of the world’s most visible and respected railways — Switzerland and China.
Starting by citing Swiss Federal Railways’ legendary ad slogan — “Smart people travel by rail” (Der Kluge reist im Züge) — David’s talk focus on many matters, including a modal shift from air to rail.
The talk centred also on a host of other matters, including a condensed history of the railways of China, responding to passenger demand (both in China and Switzerland), growing the rail and metro networks, and what’s next in both countries.
A look at the mobility revolution that is China’s HSR network also followed. In particular, the expansive Chinese HSR network is one of the most affordable networks in the world — the competitively-priced Chinese express rail system offers competition to airliners and carries riders travelling both in Second Class and splurge, in style, without breaking the bank.
David also took a look at how Swissness, and other Swiss elements, can inspire China’s railways to do better. These include a far more integrated ticketing network across the various modes of transport, more varied and accessible ticketing, improved timetabling, more focus on details, better support for international and incoming riders alike, and more investment in trams and suburban rail, amongst others.
The well-received talk ended with a Q&A session lasting around 40 minutes, where questions and views were freely aired and discussed. Everything from ticketing queries to personal tips and tricks for rail travel were discussed, as were more critical views on the sustainability and scale of network development.
Quick facts:
- Talk delivered on 08 July 2024 local time
- Swissnex Shanghai in Shanghai, China
- Spoken delivery in English (English + German slides), c. 45 minutes
- Audience: around 30 persons in all