New High-Speed Train Arrives! N700ST Debuts in Japan, Arrives in Taiwan for Testing in August – 25% Capacity Boost Expected by 2028

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is celebrating its 20th anniversary of service by investing 124.091 billion yen (approximately NT$28.5 billion) to procure 12 new-generation trainsets, the N700ST. The first trainset will officially debut in Japan on the 30th and is scheduled to arrive in Taiwan on August 15, where it will undergo static and dynamic testing before entering phased operations in 2027 and 2028.

Alongside the new train introduction, THSR is advancing its 'THSR 2.0' initiative, upgrading its existing 700T fleet and comprehensively renovating station facilities. The full-line transformation is expected to be completed by mid-2028, delivering a next-generation high-speed rail service experience.

THSR explains that the 'T' in N700ST, like in the current 700T, stands for 'Taiwan,' symbolizing that both generations of trains are custom-designed for Taiwan's operating environment and passenger needs. The new train retains the iconic white body with orange and black accent lines from the 700T, maintaining brand identity and generational continuity.

According to the plan, the 12 N700ST trainsets will arrive in Taiwan starting in August, with six entering service in 2027 and another six in 2028. This will expand THSR's fleet from the current 34 trainsets to 46, increasing peak-hour capacity by an estimated 25% and better alleviating travel demand during holidays and peak periods.

The N700ST maintains a 12-car configuration, including 11 standard-class cars and one business-class car, but features comprehensive performance upgrades over the 700T. The train's total weight has been reduced from 503 to 492 tons, while the front car length has increased from 8 to 10.7 meters. The number of powered cars has increased to 10, and traction motor power has been upgraded from 285 kW to 305 kW per unit. Acceleration has improved from 2.0 to 2.542 km/h/s, enabling smoother and more efficient operation while maintaining a maximum operating speed of 300 km/h.

Interior design upgrades include one of the most significant changes: charging outlets are now installed at every seat armrest, no longer limited to business class or select seats. All restrooms feature washlet toilets, and independent handwashing stations have been added in the aisles, with centralized control interfaces.

In business class, reading lights have been relocated to the side of the headrests, and tables are now extendable with added small side trays for enhanced convenience. Seats feature a more enveloping sunken design, with backrests equipped with slow-descending hooks. Table surfaces are larger and include a soft-close mechanism, further improving ride comfort.

Accessibility and family-friendly facilities have also been upgraded. Wheelchair spaces increase from 4 to 7 per trainset. Accessible restrooms now include ostomy cleaning equipment, changing platforms, and washlet toilets. Nursing rooms have been enlarged by about 50%, allowing full stroller access, and now include handwashing stations and baby seats.

Passenger concerns about luggage space have also been addressed. The large luggage area uses a mixed single- and double-tier design, accommodating up to 114 large suitcases (28 inches or larger), nearly double the capacity of the 700T. Overhead luggage racks, previously limited to carry-ons under 20 inches, can now accommodate smaller luggage up to 26 inches placed horizontally, greatly increasing storage flexibility.

In addition to introducing new trains, THSR continues to upgrade its 700T fleet, which has been in service for nearly 20 years. Upgrades include replacing cabin information displays with large color screens, updating restroom lighting, integrating faucets and soap dispensers into mirror cabinets, improving curtain sun-blocking performance, replacing seat covers in business and some standard-class cars, and adding multi-payment options and e-invoice functionality to select vending machines.

Station facilities are also being renovated. Platform doors have already begun installation at Hsinchu Station (excluding Taipei Station), with other stations to follow. The full-line platform door project is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2028. Restrooms, service counters, nursing rooms, and waiting seats at all stations will be updated progressively starting this year, with full completion expected by mid-2028.

To celebrate the arrival of the N700ST, THSR is launching a range of commemorative products. The most notable are limited-edition 'fisherman hats' and 'crescent bags' crafted from the new train's business and standard-class seat fabrics, priced at NT$1,690 and NT$2,850 respectively. Handmade by mothers from local community workshops in Taiwan, these items embody sustainability and social contribution.

Starting July 29, THSR will roll out N700ST commemorative merchandise, including crescent bags and co-branded beer. (Provided by Taiwan High Speed Rail)

Additionally, THSR has partnered with Taiwan Beer to launch a limited-edition 'Gold Premium Taiwan Beer – Taiwan High Speed Rail Edition.' The bottle features N700ST and Yushan Mountain imagery with an orange-and-white dual-color design. It will be available from August 1 at THSR station bento counters, four major convenience stores, PX Mart, Meilinsha, and major supermarkets, marking the official launch of THSR 2.0.