Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSRC) is entering a new era with the collaboration of Hitachi and Toshiba. Taiwan is starting production of 12 new-generation trains to make the rail connection between Taipei and Kaohsiung more efficient and faster. These trains are part of a major project expected to be operational by the end of 2027. The partnership will modernize Taiwan’s railway system and position it as a leader in global railway solutions.
Innovative Features of Taiwan High-Speed Trains
The HTSC (Hitachi Toshiba Railway Corporation) joint venture, established by THSRC, Hitachi and Toshiba, has started production of the next-generation high-speed trains in Taiwan as of May 2023. The first phase of production includes completing the design and starting production of 12-car trains. These trains are designed based on the N2020S platform, which has been in service in Japan since 700.
The new trains offer modern features such as updated seats and device charging ports in each carriage. Additionally, there are six wheelchair accessible seats, providing greater accessibility than the four seats offered by Taiwan’s current trains. Travel comfort has been significantly improved with features such as active suspension and noise protection. Improvements in the transition between carriages ensure that passengers experience a quieter and more comfortable journey.
Production Process and Application to Taiwan
HTSC has already started the production process by adapting successful technology from Japan to Taiwan’s special conditions. Taiwan plans to test these innovative trains under local conditions and take delivery by the end of 2026. From that date on, the trains will be put into test drives and local engineers will evaluate the trains’ efficiency according to Taiwan’s special environmental conditions.
Increasing travel speed, reducing noise levels, and improving accessibility are all features that aim to provide a better experience for passengers on Taiwan’s High Speed Trains. Additionally, the trains are expected to be in full service by 2027, marking a significant step in the modernization of Taiwan’s railway system.
Taiwan's Role in Global Rail Solutions
This partnership will make Taiwan a major player in global rail solutions. Taiwan High Speed Trains will set an example for high-speed rail transportation not only domestically but also internationally. These trains will set a new standard in both speed and comfort and will transform Taiwan’s transportation infrastructure.
Thanks to the technological combination of THSRC, Hitachi and Toshiba, Taiwan will have a faster, more efficient and more comfortable railway system by 2027. These innovative trains will keep Taiwan at the forefront of global railway solutions by taking into account important factors such as sustainability, speed and accessibility.
Taiwan High Speed Trains is shaping the future of Taiwan’s railway system with the combined engineering skills of Hitachi and Toshiba. The production of the new generation trains and their full operation in 2027 will make Taiwan a global pioneer in railway transport. With this project, Taiwan aims to provide a fast, comfortable and sustainable transportation solution for the passenger transport sector.
