Japan Unveils the New ‘Supreme’ Bullet Train
Japan has revealed a prototype version of its 186 mph Shinkansen bullet train which features a sharper nose profile, power sockets for every seat, and light-up luggage racks. According to Japanese publication Asahi, Central Japan Railway’s N700S series trains are due to debut in 2020, on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, which runs between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka. Test runs are due to begin this month.
All passenger seats will be fitted with power sockets for electronic devices, while passengers travelling first-class will enjoy 15 percent more leg room. The new design will also include head compartments that light up when a train approaches stations to remind passengers to pick up their belongings.
The Supreme will be shorter than the existing versions, as it will be made of up to 12 cars instead of 16. As Railway Gazette notes, the nose has been redesigned to have a modified ‘dual supreme wing type’ profile, which will reportedly improve airflow and reduce a sonic boom effect while the train is moving through tunnels. The Supreme train will be able to travel at 177 mph (285 kmph) on the Tokaido Shinkansen line and at 186 mph (300 kmph) on the Sanyo Shinkansen line, which is just as fast as previous trains.
