TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan High Speed Rail will adjust its business strategies as new trains are set to enter service and passenger numbers continue to grow, CNA reported.
THSR set a record last year, carrying 82.07 million passengers and generating revenue of over NT$54.6 billion (US$1.74 billion). The company purchased 12 N700ST trains from the Hitachi Toshiba Supreme Consortium, which are expected to arrive in August and enter service next year.
The new trains feature seats with charging ports, vibration-reducing systems, and noise-reduction designs for a smoother, quieter ride. Each train also includes a nursing room and six spaces for wheelchairs. THSR plans to purchase eight additional trains from the Japanese consortium, pending board approval.
THSR Chair Shih Che (史哲) said last year’s ridership increased by around 11,000 passengers compared with 2024. The company estimates that ridership could exceed 100 million by 2032, with passenger growth outpacing earlier projections.
To meet passenger demand, the company plans to boost peak-hour service, increasing departures at terminal stations to 12 per hour in each direction, up from eight. At Taoyuan and Hsinchu stations, peak-hour stops will double from four per hour to eight.
THSR will also expand direct service. Peak-hour trains from Taipei to Taichung will increase to four departures per hour, while direct trains to Tainan and Zuoying will also be increased, with new trains prioritized for these routes.
Shih emphasized that THSR has become a key part of the nation’s transportation network. He added that with more trains planned to stop at Taoyuan and Hsinchu, the company aims to better serve commuters traveling to Taipei for work.
To prepare for the arrival of its new trains, THSR is constructing a maintenance facility near its Kaohsiung operations center, set for completion next year. In February, the company will also upgrade its maintenance yard in Kaohsiung’s Yanchao District. These two projects are expected to cost up to NT$70 billion.
