TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan Railways Corp. (TRA) will replace all seats on its EMU3000 intercity express trains by 2028, following widespread complaints about comfort.

TRA has purchased 50 EMU3000 train sets, totaling 600 cars, as part of a major fleet upgrade. The current seats, introduced with the trains in 2021, have drawn criticism for their 90-degree angle and lack of ergonomic support, according to CNA.

In response, the company last year commissioned three redesigned seat prototypes featuring improved lumbar support, contoured cushioning, and built-in USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports in the armrests. Passengers were invited to test the new seats and vote on their preferred design.

TRA Chair Cheng Kuang-yuan (鄭光遠) said Wednesday that the final design will be confirmed by the end of the year. The new seats will be installed on select trains for a two- to three-month public trial before full implementation begins in 2026.

The entire EMU3000 fleet is expected to be retrofitted by 2028.

Each EMU3000 train accommodates 538 passengers, or about 40% more than older Puyuma and Taroko express trains. The model serves both eastern and western routes, including Taichung, Kaohsiung, and Hualien.