Japan launches new Shinkansen bullet train

It can run up to 360 kilometers per hour, a new record set during trials in 2019, making it one of the fastest trains in the world. Operating speed, however, will be limited to 285 kilometers per hour.

Coincidentally, Japan inaugurated the Tokaido Shinkansen line in 1964, connecting Tokyo and Osaka, just in time for the Summer Olympics in Tokyo that same year. It was the first high-speed railroad in the world.

Cutting-edge technology

But look closely and you will see the new train has a more angular nose, chubbier “cheeks” and a sleeker design of lights.

On the inside, the newly designed seats allow passengers to lie down further, offering more comfort, especially for long distance riders. Each seat has its own power jack.

Interior lighting has been designed to create a softer and more relaxed atmosphere. The overhead luggage rack will light up at each stop to remind passengers of their belongings.

More reservation-specific storage areas for extra large luggage have been added to this model as well.

The Shinkansen N700S bullet train, which only started commercial service on July 1, connects Tokyo with Osaka.

Kyodo News / Getty Images

The actual journey will be much calmer and smoother, too, thanks to a new active suspension system that helps absorb train movements.

In addition to focusing on increasing comfort, the designer behind this new model emphasizes safety.

The train has an improved automatic brake and control system that allows it to stop faster in the event of an emergency.

It is also equipped with a self-propulsion lithium-ion battery system – the first of its kind in the world. This system allows the train to run at its own short distance during a power outage and will allow it to move to a safer location at low speed if stranded in high-risk areas – on bridges or tunnels, for example – during an earthquake.

More cameras have also been installed in the car compartment – an increase from two cameras to six in each train car.

Enhanced components will take up less space under the train floor compared to older models, allowing for more flexible configurations, from four to 16 cars. It also reduces energy consumption while speeding up production time, making it a more attractive choice for international operators.

“This new standard will also help in developing our business overseas.”