World’s longest freight train hauls 696 cars

(CNN, KYMA) - The newest world's longest freight train makes history, according to South African freight operator TFR, who said engineers recently bested a standing world record.

By running an empty, 696-car iron ore train on a line from the Port of Saldanha to the Northern Cape.

According to a press release, the massive freighter stretched an incredible 4.7 miles long, besting the current Guinness World Record holder.

A 4.6-mile-long freighter that ran through Australia in 2001.

TFR called the feat more than a record accomplishment, saying it demonstrated world-class engineering expertise, operational excellence and innovation.