Jul 01 (NHK) - A new Shinkansen bullet train model, the N700S series, has come into service, with many fans celebrating its rollout.
Rail enthusiasts rushed to the platform at Tokyo Station as soon as the station's ticket gates opened at 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday. They took photos of the brand-new N700S, the first fully upgraded model in 13 years and the sixth generation to be used on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.
Central Japan Railway President Kaneko Shin gave a ceremonial speech before the train's departure at 6:00 a.m. for Fukuoka.
He said the N700S has the highest capabilities in every aspect, and expressed hope that passengers will enjoy very comfortable ride.
The N700S has a top operating speed of 285 kilometers per hour, the same as the earlier model of the series. But noise, vibration and air resistance have been reduced.
The company plans to start with four trains of the model, and increase the number to 40 over the next three years.
Source: ANNnewsCH
