As Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) approaches its 20th anniversary of service, the operator is preparing its most significant fleet overhaul to date: 12 new-generation N700ST trainsets procured from Japan at a cost of approximately NT$28.5 billion (around US$880 million). The first set is expected to arrive in August 2026, with all 12 trainsets targeted for full deployment by the end of 2028.
THSR has released official footage and images of the N700ST's redesigned interior and exterior — covering upgrades to seating, windows, and spatial layout — with the onboard restrooms drawing the most public attention.
Restrooms Reimagined: Bidets, Vanity Stations, and Nursing Rooms
The most talked-about feature of the new fleet is a comprehensive restroom overhaul. Every restroom on the N700ST will be equipped with a bidet toilet seat, along with washbasins positioned both inside and outside each lavatory. The external basin allows passengers to wash hands or freshen up without entering the restroom and waiting in line, while a pull curtain provides privacy. Additional amenities include a dedicated nursing room, a vanity space with bright mirrors, power outlets, and coat hooks.
The reaction online has been enthusiastic. Passengers commenting on the official footage said the new layout finally offered enough room to move freely — "no more bracing your knees against the door," as one user put it. Others described the design as feeling "like a hotel bathroom," praised the new changing table as "much more family-friendly," and joked that the vanity area looked like "a property listing" rather than a train restroom.
Cabin Refresh: Upgraded Seating, Power at Every Seat, and More Storage
Beyond the restroom redesign, the N700ST's cabin has received a broad interior refresh. The overall color palette shifts from the existing scheme to a brighter teal tone with silver-grey accents, giving the interior a more contemporary feel.
Every seat will be fitted with a 110V power outlet — a direct response to the growing demand for in-journey charging — along with a new hook on each seatback for bags and personal items. The seating itself adopts a "sinking" recline mechanism: as the backrest tilts back, the seat cushion simultaneously dips slightly downward, improving lumbar support during longer journeys.
Luggage storage has also been significantly expanded in response to longstanding passenger complaints. Each trainset will feature approximately 24 large luggage bays and three slim-profile storage bays, supplemented by both single-tier and double-tier overhead racks. Overhead rack depth has also been increased to fit luggage up to 26 inches.
Background: Fleet Modernization at the 20-Year Mark
The N700ST is a modified variant of Japan's N700S Shinkansen platform, adapted for Taiwan's operational requirements. The procurement comes as THSR continues a broader modernization push that has already included the installation of platform screen doors and improved onboard Wi-Fi.
With the first delivery scheduled for August 2026 and commercial service targeted for late 2028, the new fleet remains roughly two years away — though public enthusiasm, judging by the online response, is already considerable.
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