THSRC Plans Biggest Timetable Overhaul, ‘Super Express’ Trains by 2027

Kaohsiung: Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. (THSRC) announced plans to initiate its largest timetable overhaul since the commencement of operations two decades ago, aiming to launch new "super express" services and increase train frequency by early 2027. According to Focus Taiwan, the overhaul will be synchronized with the phased introduction of 12 N700S-T (N700ST) trainsets acquired from Japan. The first trainset is set to arrive in Kaohsiung later this month. These new trains will boast dedicated charging ports for every seat and Japanese-style bidet restroom facilities available in both standard and business classes. Business class will also offer an "immersive" ergonomic design and improved reading lights. The new fleet is anticipated to begin service in July 2027, with full deployment of all 12 trainsets by September 2028. This expansion will increase THSRC's fleet from 34 to 46 trainsets, allowing the maximum number of trains during peak hours to rise from seven to 10 per hour, thereby enhancing carrying capacity by approximately 25 percent. THSRC stated that the revised timetable aims to reduce congestion on the busiest sections in northern Taiwan while enhancing long-distance travel and offering more flexible service across all 12 stations. The company intends to unveil the updated timetable in the fourth quarter of this year, with full implementation slated for early 2027. The changes will be rolled out in stages, starting with a major timetable revision followed by incremental service increases. Proposed changes include a new "super express" service for nonstop travel between northern and southern Taiwan, as well as new direct trains connecting Yunlin and Chiayi with Taichung and Taipei. Additionally, THSRC plans to introduce more southbound evening trains between Nangang and Taichung on Fridays and Sundays, and faster train turnarounds at Taichung Station to boost service frequency during peak periods in northern and central Taiwan. Passengers traveling between Nangang and Taichung during peak hours ca n expect trains approximately every 10 minutes, enhancing travel convenience and reducing congestion on southbound services from Taipei. Longer stops at Taoyuan Station will accommodate airline passengers with additional time to board and unload luggage. THSRC Chairman Shih Che emphasized that the new timetable will focus on alleviating congestion on the northern sections while improving the convenience of long-distance travel. Before the new trains enter service, they must undergo assembly, static testing, and four phases of dynamic testing after arrival in Taiwan, as stated by the Railway Bureau. Officials project that the first trainset will complete dynamic testing by the end of April 2027 before entering commercial service, contingent upon final regulatory approval.