A new high-speed rail project in Japan is set to cut the journey between Tokyo and Nagoya to just 40 minutes, half the existing bullet train journey once the line is complete.
The Linear Chuo Shinkansen, operated by Central Japan Railway Co., will use superconducting magnetic levitation (maglev) technology to reach speeds of up to 500 km/h, similar to China’s maglev in Shanghai.
In a design shift, the high-speed trains will offer only non-reclining seats, in favour of more passenger leg and luggage space.
Officials have indicated that passenger comfort will not be compromised, with seats fixed at 15 degrees, as well as softer cushioning than existing Tokaido Shinkansen trains for a more even weight distribution.
The line is planned to eventually extend to Osaka, reducing Tokyo–Osaka travel to around 67 minutes. Originally slated for completion in 2027, construction disputes have delayed the launch to 2034 or later.
AloJapan.com