Key facts
- Taiwan received the first of 12 new N700ST bullet train sets from Japan on August 15.
- The trains are based on Japan's N700S Shinkansen model and are customized for Taiwan.
- The order for 144 cars was placed with a consortium including Hitachi and Toshiba for approximately $778 million.
- The new trains are expected to increase peak passenger capacity by over 25%.
- Commercial operation is slated to begin by July 2027, with all 12 trains operational by 2028.
Taiwan's high-speed rail system welcomed the arrival of the first of 12 new N700ST bullet train sets from Japan on August 15, marking a significant upgrade and a new chapter for the service. The new trains, based on Japan's N700S Shinkansen model and tailored to Taiwan's specifications, are expected to boost peak passenger capacity by over 25% once fully integrated into the fleet.
A consortium of Japanese companies, including Hitachi and Toshiba, secured an order for a total of 144 cars valued at approximately 778 million dollars. The arrival of these trains signifies a shift towards growth for Taiwan's high-speed rail, which initially faced challenges after its 2007 launch and was the first overseas application of Shinkansen technology.
Taiwan's Minister of Transportation and Communications, Chen Shih-kai, described the new train model as a symbol of future industrial and urban development for Taiwan over the next two decades. Shih Che, Chair of Taiwan High Speed Rail, stated that the trains are set to enter service by July 2027, with all 12 trainsets expected to be operational by 2028, increasing the total fleet to 46 and easing pressure on the network.
Japanese Vice Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Sasaki Noriyuki, expressed hope that the trains would foster friendship and trust between Japan and Taiwan. The ceremony was noted to have been overshadowed by a recent earthquake in Kumamoto, Japan, with organizers extending condolences to the victims.