Taiwan High Speed Rail to launch new trains, biggest timetable overhaul in 20 years

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is set to launch its new generation N700ST trains on July 1, 2025, accompanied by the most significant timetable revision in the company's 20-year history. The first of 12 new N700ST trainsets, manufactured by Japan, was rolled out on July 30 and is expected to arrive in Taiwan by August 15.

The overhaul, slated for announcement in the fourth quarter of this year and implementation in early 2025, aims to significantly boost operational capacity and flexibility. THSR plans to increase peak-hour train departures from seven to ten per hour, enhancing service by 25%. This expansion will bring the total fleet to 46 trainsets, up from the current 34.

THSR Chairman Shieh Cheh previously stated that the new timetable will integrate the new trains while prioritizing solutions for the current congestion on northern routes. The changes will include increased late-night southbound services on Fridays and Sundays for the Taichung-Taipei section, and a new rapid turnaround measure at Taichung station. This will allow for two trains per hour specifically serving the Nangang-Taichung route, aiming for a train every 10 minutes, making travel more convenient and easing congestion.

The revised schedule also introduces new direct train services to improve long-distance travel. These include "super express" trains connecting the north and south directly, and express services from Yunlin and Chiayi to Taichung and Taipei. Additionally, parking times at Taoyuan Station will be extended to accommodate travelers with luggage, particularly those heading to the airport.

“

The new timetable must be based on the current timetable structure, allowing new trains to join the operational schedule, and will prioritize solving the current 'northern section congestion' problem, and further enhance the convenience of 'long-distance transportation'.