The internal combustion engine train can be driven by a blizzard, but the bullet train cannot be driven. What's going on?

The reasons why internal combustion engine trains can operate normally in heavy snow conditions relative to EMUs are related to their design, technical characteristics, and adaptability to bad weather. Here are some of the key factors:

1. Traction differences: Internal combustion engine trains rely on diesel engines to provide power, and power is transmitted to the wheels through a mechanical drivetrain, resulting in greater traction. This strong traction helps the train run on snow-covered tracks without being prone to skidding. In contrast, EMUs are usually electrically driven, and while acceleration is good, they may be more prone to slippage on slippery tracks.
2. Weight factor: Diesel engine trains are typically heavier than EMUs, and this extra weight helps to increase the adhesion on the tracks, making it more stable to run on snowy or icy tracks.
3. Technology & Design: The design and technology of internal combustion engine trains are better suited to a variety of adverse weather conditions, including extreme cold and snow cover. Their operation is less dependent on external power supplies and delicate electrical equipment, which can be affected in bad weather.
4. Sensitivity of electrical equipment: EMUs rely on external power sources and on-board electrical equipment to provide power and control. Heavy snowfall and freezing conditions can cause power line failures, deterioration in insulation, and freezing of vital components, affecting their proper operation.
5. O&M & Infrastructure: EMUs place higher demands on the railway infrastructure, such as the need for clean, ice-free tracks and electrical equipment to function properly. Blizzards and extreme weather conditions make it even more challenging to keep these infrastructures up and running.

Overall, internal combustion engine trains are designed and operated in such a way that they are more resilient to adverse weather conditions, including blizzards, while EMUs may face more constraints in extreme weather conditions due to their technical and operational characteristics. This doesn't mean that EMUs can't run in snow, but it does mean that in some cases, internal combustion engine trains may be more advantageous.

There are many types of trains in China, ranging from traditional steam locomotives to modern electric locomotives and high-speed EMUs. Here are some of the main types of locomotives:

1. Steam locomotive:

• The main form of power in the early railroad era.
• Although it is now largely out of the historical stage, steam locomotives are still used for display and commemorative purposes in some areas and tourist routes.

2. Diesel locomotives:

• It uses diesel as power, mainly for freight and passenger transportation.
• It is more efficient than steam locomotives, simple to maintain, and highly adaptable.

3. Electric locomotive:

• The use of electric drive, high efficiency, environmental protection, is the main force of China's railway transportation.
• Including DC electric locomotives, AC electric locomotives and AC and DC dual-purpose electric locomotives.

4. EMU:

• It is the main form of modern railway transportation, especially in the field of high-speed rail.
• An EMU is a set of fixed-group vehicles, and the power is distributed throughout the entire train, which can provide high acceleration and deceleration, efficient and comfortable.
• For example, CRH (China Railway High-Speed), CR (China Railway), CRH380A and other series.

5. High-speed EMU (high-speed rail):

• It represents the top level of China's railway technology, with the characteristics of high speed, high efficiency and environmental protection.
• Including Harmony CRH series, Fuxing CR series, etc.
• The Fuxing CR400 series is currently one of the fastest trains in the world, with iconic design and advanced technology reflecting China's leading position in high-speed rail technology.

6. Maglev train:

• Using magnetic force, the train is suspended above the tracks, running almost frictionlessly and capable of reaching extremely high speeds.
• The Shanghai Maglev Train is the first commercially operated maglev train in China, connecting downtown Shanghai with Pudong International Airport.

These locomotive types demonstrate the comprehensive progress of China's railways from traditional technology to modern high-tech, especially in the field of high-speed railway and urban rail transit.