Taiwan High Speed Rail Unveils New 'N700ST' Train! Built on Japan's Latest Shinkansen Technology – Chairman Shih: Commercial Service to Begin July 2027

Taiwan High Speed Rail has reached a significant milestone in its operational history. THSR and the Hitachi Toshiba Supreme Consortium (HTSC) held the 'Rollout Ceremony for THSR's Next-Generation N700ST Train' today (30th) at Hitachi's Kakita Factory in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan. After a 22-year gap, a new Shinkansen-based train model is crossing the sea to Taiwan. Following rollout, the first N700ST train is scheduled to arrive at Kaohsiung Port, Taiwan, on August 15, 2024, where it will undergo a series of tests before entering commercial service as early as July 2027.

The rollout ceremony was co-hosted by THSR Chairman Shih Che and Giuseppe Marino, CEO of Hitachi's Rail Business Sector, with over 100 distinguished guests from both Taiwan and Japan in attendance, including Taiwan's Representative to Japan Li Yi-Yang, Minister of Transportation Chen Shih-Kai, and JR Central President Shin Kaneko, symbolizing a new phase in Taiwan-Japan high-speed rail cooperation.

Chairman Shih stated that while the HSR system originated from Japan's Shinkansen technology, after 20 years of operation in Taiwan, it has truly 'taken root locally.' It has not only become a crucial infrastructure for balanced regional development but also evolved into the 'artery of Taiwan,' connecting industries and talent flows.

Shih highlighted that HSR has effectively linked the western technology corridor, boosting talent and industrial exchanges. Citing relevant studies, he noted that HSR generates approximately NT$4.5 trillion in annual business for accommodation, tourism, and dining. Alongside the rapid growth of the semiconductor industry, Taiwan's semiconductor output value has surged from about NT$22 trillion in 2017 to an estimated NT$55 trillion in 2025. 'HSR is no longer just Taiwan's artery; it has further become the “Silicon Island Artery” supporting Taiwan's technological industry development,' he emphasized.

Currently, THSR's daily ridership has increased from around 43,000 passengers at launch to approximately 232,000, with total ridership surpassing 1 billion this year. The average punctuality rate exceeds 99%, and the departure rate reaches 100%, which are key reasons driving the procurement of new trains.

THSR and HTSC signed a contract in May 2023 to procure 12 next-generation train sets, based on Japan's latest Tokaido Shinkansen model, the N700S, customized to meet Taiwan's operational needs. After rollout, the first N700ST will be shipped from Kakita Port and is expected to arrive at Kaohsiung Port on August 15. Subsequent static and dynamic testing will follow. Two trains are scheduled to arrive in Taiwan this year, with eight more delivered in 2027 and the final two in 2028. All 12 train sets will be gradually introduced into service by 2028.

Chairman Shih revealed that the first N700ST is expected to officially enter service on July 1, 2027. Once all 12 new train sets are fully operational, THSR's weekly service frequency will increase from the current 1,134 to over 1,400, boosting peak-hour capacity by approximately 25%. The new trains will be prioritized for long-distance routes, enhancing passenger flexibility.

The N700ST retains the iconic orange-black livery of the current 700T trains, with a bright white front as the main body, complemented by orange and black curved lines extending along both sides of the carbody, creating a streamlined and dynamic appearance at high speeds. For passenger experience, the new train features full-color LCD information displays, arrival lighting indicators, double-layer luggage racks, seat charging ports, and improved noise and vibration reduction design, enhancing ride comfort.

Additionally, N700ST strengthens accessibility and family-friendly facilities, including newly added nursing rooms, handwashing stations, baby seats, and diaper changing tables. The number of wheelchair spaces has increased to six, each equipped with securing devices, ensuring a safer and more convenient environment for all passengers.

To welcome the new generation of trains, THSR is simultaneously advancing its 'HSR 2.0' initiative, including expansion of maintenance facilities, equipment upgrades, staff training, and control system adjustments, to comprehensively enhance operational and maintenance capabilities.

Shih stated that the next two to three years will see the co-operation of both 700T and N700ST models. After the full deployment of new trains, THSR will evaluate a replacement plan for the existing 34 700T train sets, preparing for the next phase of fleet renewal.

THSR is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary of service in 2027. Through new trains, station upgrades, and service enhancements, the company aims to drive its next phase of operational transformation, unveiling a new 'HSR 2.0' identity, once again highlighting the significant achievements in Taiwan-Japan transportation technology collaboration.