Japan is popular for a great many things and the Shinkansen is one of them. Better known as the bullet train, the Shinkansen lets you cover great distances in a relatively short period of time compared to normal, slower trains. The country has now unveiled a prototype “Supreme” version of its Shinkansen bullet train capable of hitting 186 miles per hour. This version of its bullet train is expected to enter service prior to the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
Central Japan Railway’s N700S series trains retain the iconic bullet train nose profile but opt for a sharper look. Moreover, there are power sockets for every seat and luggage racks that light up. The seats themselves have been improved with new fabric and more recline. There’s 15 percent more legroom for passengers in first or green class as well.
The nose redesign doesn’t put form over function. It’s actually meant to improve airflow and reduce the sonic boom effect when the train moves through tunnels. However, it will only be able to hit a maximum of 186 miles per hour on the Sanyo Shinkansen line which is the same top speed as the previous trains so no real gains have been made in the speed department.
The Supreme trains will be emblazoned with a large gold “S” which will make them easily distinguishable. According to reports, the latest version of this bullet train is expected to enter service in 2020 on the Tokaido Shinkansen line which connects Tokyo and Shin-Osaka.
Filed in ..