Taiwan High Speed Rail invests billions in new trains and infrastructure

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is embarking on its largest-ever investment, exceeding NT$30 billion (approximately $930 million USD), to integrate 12 advanced N700-ST trains procured from Japan into its operations. The first of these new trains has arrived in Taiwan and is undergoing testing at the Yanchao depot.

To support the expanded fleet and increased service frequency, THSR is launching a significant recruitment drive. The company plans to hire around 125 new employees, including 45 drivers and 80 maintenance personnel. These new hires will be crucial for assembling and testing the new train sets, as well as for the increased maintenance demands once the trains are in regular service. THSR also anticipates hiring frontline service staff as operational needs grow.

Salaries for new drivers are expected to range from NT$60,000 to NT$70,000 per month after completing training and obtaining their licenses. New maintenance staff, depending on their role and shift work, could earn close to NT$50,000 monthly, including allowances for night shifts and overtime. The company has a history of salary adjustments, having increased pay five times in the past five years, and offers comprehensive employee benefits.

The substantial investment extends beyond new trains and personnel. THSR is upgrading its infrastructure, including improving communication quality across the entire network and installing platform screen doors. Station facilities, such as service counters, seating areas, and nursing rooms, are also being renovated as part of the "High Speed Rail 2.0" initiative. The core ticketing system will be enhanced to allow passengers to select train models when booking, with all sales channels, including the "T-EX" mobile app, being updated accordingly. A new maintenance facility is also being constructed at the Zuoying base to accommodate the growing fleet.