Japan, China: High-speed rail operator THSRC has posted a video on its social media showing the exterior and interior of the 12-car trainset. Speaking in the video, THSRC chairman Shih Che said delivery of the first N700ST train is expected in early August.
Taiwan currently operates a fleet of 34 700T series trainsets built by Hitachi, Kawasaki and Nippon Sharyo between 2004 and 2015. According to Shih Che, the new variant is 7% more energy-efficient than the existing fleet, partly thanks to a 13-tonne weight saving. The nose section is flatter and more aerodynamic, while window dimensions have been reduced to cut noise in tunnels and minimise drag. Overall, interior noise levels are claimed to be 10% lower.
The trains have an improved emergency braking system that cuts braking distance from 4 km to 3.2 km. They are also equipped with lithium-ion batteries providing a range of up to 10 km at 30 km/h. All cars feature active suspension to improve ride comfort.
New modification of the N700ST high-speed trains for Taiwan from Hitachi Rail and Toshiba. Source: THSRC
The interior has been reworked. Toilets have been refurbished, with additional washbasins and bidets and new baby changing tables. The number of spaces for passengers with reduced mobility has been increased, and luggage storage has been improved.
The Japanese consortium of Hitachi Rail and Toshiba secured the contract to supply 12 high-speed trains for JPY 124 bln ($895 mln) in May 2023. The trains are expected to enter service in the second half of next year, with the full order in operation by the end of 2028. Operating speed on the Taiwanese high-speed line will be limited to 300 km/h. The design speed of the N700S, on which the new train is based, is 360 km/h.
