Freight train linking Zhengzhou, Central China's Henan province, and Hamburg, Germany, sets off in Zhengzhou on Aug 2, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

ZHENGZHOU - A new China-Europe freight train service began Aug 22, linking Zhengzhou, Central China's Henan province, with Munich, Germany, according to Xinhua and China News Service.

A train loaded with electrical equipment such as electrical machineries, hot press templates, bearing parts, and LED lights left Zhengzhou Aug 21 night and will arrive at Munich 15 to 16 days later.

The route will cover countries such as France, Italy, Spain, Austria, Hungary, and Czech Republic.

Zhengzhou opened its first China-Europe freight train route to Hamburg in July 2013. The number of cargo trains has increased dramatically under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Munich is renowned for its auto industry and is home to brands such as BMW, Porsche, Mercedes Benz, and Bosch. The new freight route will also boost the import of automobiles in the future.

The train will start its return trip on Sept 5.

The new route to Munich will help lower transportation costs to southern and central European countries, said Huo Xiaohua, a customs manager with Zhengzhou International Hub Development and Construction Co, Ltd.