Taiwan High Speed Rail to launch new trains in 2027

台灣高鐵將於2027年推出新世代列車

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan High Speed Rail’s new N700ST trains are scheduled to begin operation in 2027, which will increase peak travel capacity by approximately 25%.

THSR is purchasing 12 N700STs from Japan’s Hitachi Toshiba Supreme Consortium for approximately NT$25.8 billion (US$853 million). The trains are currently under production, with painting scheduled to begin at the end of this year and delivery to Taiwan for testing expected in August 2026, per CNA.

Based on Japan’s N700S Shinkansen model, the N700ST trains will feature THSR’s signature orange-and-black color scheme. Their front ends will be flatter and more streamlined to reduce noise in tunnels and minimize air resistance. The headlights will be larger and equipped with LED bulbs for improved energy efficiency.

Starting Monday, THSR is implementing new rules requiring passengers to make phone calls only in the vestibule area and use headphones when watching videos or listening to audio inside the train cars. The company noted the N700ST trains will have fully enclosed inter-car connections to enhance noise isolation.

The new trains will include an improved vibration reduction system to boost ride stability by about 30%. They will also feature an enhanced emergency braking system that shortens the stopping distance from 4 km to 3.2 km.

In addition, the N700ST fleet will be equipped with backup lithium batteries to operate when external power is unavailable. These batteries can power the train for up to 10 km at 30 kmh and supply about 30 minutes of emergency lighting and toilet flushing inside the cars.

Interior upgrades on the train include double-level luggage racks and seats with built-in charging ports. The number of wheelchair-accessible seats will increase from four to six per train, and nursing room facilities will also be enhanced.

THSR added that it has made preparations for the new trains, including the construction of an additional maintenance facility at Zuoying and upgrades to the platform doors at Taipei Main Station. Additional hardware and software enhancements will also be implemented to accommodate the new trains.