Taiwan Boosts High Speed Rail Fleet With New Japanese N700ST Trains
REPORTER:
As the screen opens, Taiwan High Speed Rail's newest train rolls into view. The N700ST was unveiled in Japan, with a video showing the train making its symbolic journey to Taiwan. More than 200 officials and industry representatives from Taiwan and Japan attended the ceremony. It marks another milestone in a partnership that made Taiwan the first overseas operator of Japan's Shinkansen or bullet train technology.
Shih Che (CHAIR, TAIWAN HIGH SPEED RAIL):
The trains are set to enter service on July 1 next year. Once all 12 trainsets are in operation peak passenger capacity will increase by more than 25%. As Taiwan's semiconductor industry continues to lead the world Taiwan High Speed Rail is evolving from Taiwan's transportation backbone into the backbone of its Silicon Island economy.
REPORTER:
The first train is expected to arrive in Taiwan as early as August for testing. By 2028, all 12 trains are expected to be operating, increasing the total fleet to 46 trains and easing pressure on one of Taiwan's busiest transportation networks.
Sasaki Noriyuki (JAPANESE VICE MINISTER OF LAND, INFRASTRUCTURE, TRANSPORT AND TOURISM):
I sincerely hope these trains will become familiar to more people in Taiwan and contribute to Taiwan's development. I also hope they become a symbol of friendship and trust between Japan and Taiwan for years to come.
REPORTER:
The ceremony was overshadowed by the deadly earthquake in Kumamoto earlier this week. Organizers opened the event by expressing condolences to the victims, and Japan's transport minister canceled his planned appearance.
REPORTER:
Taiwan High Speed Rail says the additional trains will help meet growing demand. And as the new trains are put into service, it also symbolizes the partnership between Taiwan and Japan taking another step forward.
