Japan has unveiled its new bullet train, which is set to launch at the end of the decade and travel at a staggering 200mph.The Shinkansen train, the E10, was designed by Studio Tangerine, a UK-based design consultancy. It will mark the first time a patner from outside the country has been invited to help create one.
The train, which is said to be earthquake resistant, will replace existing trains E2 and E5 on Tohoku route, which conntects the capital Tokyo with Aomori, a city in the north of the country, as per MailOnline. The East Japan Railway Company (JR East) train is now in the design implementation phase, and the first trains are expected to enter service in 2030, Tangerine said in a press release. The company was commissioned to craft both the train’s exterior livery and its interior, which spans distinct passenger classes.
Tangerine says the design drew inspiration from Japan’s landscapes, seascapes, and cityscapes, and promises to offer an exceptional passenger experience across all classes.
The E10’s exterior livery also reflects the diverse regions the train traverses, with a mid-green colour palette akin to the lush mountain forests and coastlines along the route.
Meanwhile, the graphic shapes are said to be inspired by the silhouette of Sakura flowers, an iconic symbol of the country.
Tangerine said its philosophy in approaching the project was hospitality inspired by Japanese aesthetic traditions and craftsmanship.
It said in the statement the design philisophy “focuses on hospitality inspired by Japanese aesthetic traditions and craftsmanship, creating a refined and inviting environment”.
“Interior lighting has been carefully considered, utilising indirect wash lights to create a soft, calming ambience,” it continued.
“Seating and layout variations across all classes elevate comfort for a diverse range of passengers while ensuring operational efficiency for JR East. A consistent design was established across all classes, with graduated wall and seat upholstery creating an impactful, premium aesthetic and an enhanced onboard experience.”
Matt Round, Chief Creative Officer at Tangerine said: “The E10 Shinkansen represents a milestone in UK-Japan collaboration within the rail sector, setting new benchmarks for hospitality-focused design and sustainable travel.
“With its blend of Japanese spirit, innovation, and user-centric design, the E10 Shinkansen is poised to redefine high-speed rail travel for decades to come.”
