The first of Taiwan High Speed Rail’s next-generation N700ST trains has left Japan, marking a major milestone in one of Asia’s most significant rolling stock programmes.
The Hitachi Toshiba Supreme Consortium (HTSC), led by Hitachi and Toshiba, has announced the completion and shipment of the first N700ST trainset destined for Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC).
The shipment, comprising a single 12-car trainset, forms part of a wider order for 12 trainsets (144 vehicles) placed by THSRC in May 2023. Built at Hitachi’s Kasado Works in Japan, the fleet is scheduled to enter passenger service by the end of 2028.
N700S Technology Adapted for Taiwan
The N700ST is derived from Japan’s N700S Shinkansen, the latest generation of high-speed trains operated by Central Japan Railway Company. However, the fleet has been specifically engineered to suit Taiwan’s operating conditions and passenger requirements.
Each trainset measures around 300 metres in length and will operate at speeds of up to 300 km/h on Taiwan’s busy north-south high-speed corridor. The aerodynamic nose design reduces tunnel entry pressure and resistance, helping improve energy efficiency and passenger comfort.
Under the bonnet, the trains feature a traction system incorporating silicon carbide (SiC) power devices and a blower-less cooling system. This combination reduces both equipment size and weight while lowering overall energy consumption.
A notable resilience feature is the inclusion of Toshiba’s SCiB™ lithium-ion battery technology. In the event of a power outage, the self-propelled battery system can either move the train to a safe location at low speed or maintain essential onboard systems including lighting and toilets.
Blending Familiarity with Innovation
While introducing a new generation of rolling stock, THSRC has retained visual links with its existing fleet.
The train’s exterior combines a predominantly white front-end with orange accents representing THSRC’s corporate identity. A black line, inspired by the current 700T fleet, has also been incorporated, creating a design that balances continuity with a more modern, high-speed aesthetic.
Inside, the Standard Class seating retains elements of the colour palette passengers will recognise from existing services. Business Class adopts a sophisticated grey finish designed to create a calmer and more premium atmosphere.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
Passenger comfort has been a key focus of the N700ST design.
Standard Class seats feature an improved reclining mechanism that lowers the seat cushion as the backrest reclines, while Business Class passengers will benefit from wraparound seating. A full-active suspension system has also been introduced to significantly reduce vibration levels throughout the journey.
Other enhancements include:
- Power sockets at every seat
- Full-colour dual-level LCD passenger information displays
- Increased luggage storage capacity throughout the train
- Upgraded nursing rooms equipped with washbasins, coat hooks and baby seats
- Additional wheelchair spaces compared with the current fleet
These upgrades are intended to improve accessibility, comfort and convenience for a broad range of passengers.
Capacity Boost for Taiwan’s Key Transport Corridor
Once all 12 trainsets are delivered and commissioned, the new fleet will operate between Nangang Station in Taipei and Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung.
The introduction of the N700ST fleet is expected to increase peak-period passenger capacity by approximately 25%, enabling THSRC to operate more services along one of Taiwan’s most important transport corridors.
For Hitachi and Toshiba, the project reinforces both companies’ positions in the global high-speed rail market while showcasing technologies that could support future rail projects worldwide.
As deliveries continue over the coming years, the N700ST is set to become the new flagship of Taiwan’s high-speed railway network.
Image credit: Hitachi
