The first completed N700ST train for Taiwan unveiled
posted on 10th Aug 2026 12:00
On 30 July 2026 Hitachi Toshiba Supreme Consortium (HTSC) announced that it has completed manufacturing the first new N700ST high-speed train and has shipped them from Hitachi's Kasado Works to Taiwan. The contract for twelve 12-car high-speed trains for Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC) was awarded on 18 May 2023.
The new Taiwan Class N700ST is based on the latest N700S Shinkansen model operated widely by JR Central and has been modified to meet the operating environment and needs of THSRC. Each trainset is approximately 300 m long. The maximum service speed is 300 km/h. The traction system combines silicon carbide (SiC) inverters with a fanless cooling system to enable smaller, lighter equipment and reduce power consumption.
The trains are also equipped with Toshiba lithium-ion “SCiB™” batteries as a backup power source in the event of a power outage, particularly in the event of a disaster. This system can propel the trains at low speed to a safe location or keep onboard facilities such as lighting and restrooms operational.
The exterior is characterised by a predominantly white front-end design, complemented by orange accents, the colour of THSRC. These accents symbolise a bright future, reminiscent of the black line that is featured on the current Class 700T. This design preserves continuity with the 700T.
While the Standard Car seats retain the colours used in the 700T trainsets, the Business Car features a grey colour scheme to create a more subdued and refined atmosphere. Passenger comfort and convenience have been enhanced by reclining seats with a lowering seat cushion in the Standard Car, wraparound seats in the Business Car, a full active suspension system that significantly reduces vibration and power outlets at every seat.
Passenger information is provided via full-colour LCD displays with a two-tier display to improve the readability of train information and next-stop announcements. Storage capacity has also been improved by installing luggage storage areas throughout the train. Furthermore, nursing rooms are equipped with a washbasin, coat hook and baby seat, and additional wheelchair spaces have been provided compared to current trainsets, enhancing accessibility further.
A total of 12 trains (144 cars) are scheduled to enter commercial operation by the end of 2028. The 350 km single-line high-speed Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) connects Nangang Station in Taipei with Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung City in the south of the island. The 1,435 mm gauge line is electrified by a 25 kV, 60 Hz system. During peak periods, the THSR expects to increase transport capacity by approximately 25% compared with current levels by increasing the number of trains.
