Key facts
- Hitachi and Toshiba have begun shipping new high-speed train cars to Taiwan.
- The trains are based on Japan's N700S Shinkansen platform and are designated N700ST.
- The consortium received an order for 12 trainsets (144 cars) in May 2023.
- The first 12-car trainset was shipped on July 30, 2026.
- Commercial service is anticipated to start by the end of 2028.
- The trains feature advanced technologies for efficiency and passenger comfort, including a lithium-ion battery system for emergency movement.
A consortium formed by Japanese companies Hitachi and Toshiba has begun shipping new high-speed train cars to Taiwan, marking the culmination of a long procurement process that included previous unsuccessful bids. The first of 12 trainsets, designated N700ST and based on Japan's N700S Shinkansen platform, departed from Hitachi's Kasado Works in Kudamatsu, Japan, on July 30, 2026.
The order, awarded in May 2023 for approximately 124 billion yen ($758 million), comprises 12 trainsets, each with 12 cars, totaling 144 cars. These new trains are designed to meet the specific operational requirements of Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSRC) and are adapted from the latest Shinkansen model, incorporating advanced technologies to improve efficiency and resilience.
Key technological features include silicon carbide power devices and a blower-less cooling system to reduce equipment size and energy consumption. Additionally, Toshiba's SCiB™ lithium-ion battery system will allow the train to move to a safe location during a power outage while maintaining essential onboard services. The exterior design features a white body with orange accents, reflecting THSRC's corporate identity, while retaining visual elements from the existing 700T fleet.
Passenger amenities have been upgraded, with Standard Class offering reclining seats and Business Class featuring wraparound seating. Other enhancements include active suspension for reduced vibration, power sockets at every seat, full-color LCD information displays, increased luggage storage, improved nursing rooms, and more wheelchair spaces. The trains are designed to operate at a maximum commercial speed of 300 km/h on Taiwan's north-south high-speed railway.
The 12 trainsets are scheduled to enter commercial service by the end of 2028, with some reports suggesting summer 2027. The introduction of this new fleet is expected to increase passenger capacity on Taiwan High Speed Rail by approximately 25% during peak periods by enabling higher service frequency. THSRC has also announced a donation of 20 million yen to support recovery efforts following a recent earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan.