New japanese train to break speed record

The statistics behind the bullet train are certainly impressive. First debuting in 1964, the bullet train now runs along more than 1,500 miles of high-speed track. The rail system connects most major cities on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu, with planned extensions to Hokkaido starting in 2015.

Although world-speed records for conventional rail belong to the French TGV and the Chinese CRH, the Shinkansen is anything but a slow workhorse. The Nozomi superexpress, which runs between Tokyo and Hakata, reaches speeds of up to 180 mph. But there is a new bullet train in town that is about to Change everything.

This past weekend, Japan's first new high-speed train in 14 years departed Tokyo station en route to the northern reaches of Honshu. Sporting a slick paint job of green, pink and silver, the Hayabusa will carry passengers up to Shin-Aomori at speeds of 180 mph.

By 2012 however, this upper limit will be raised to 198 mph, breaking the current domestic speed record for conventional rail travel. This is not to be confused with the newer maglev technology, which can reach an astonishing 361 mph.

Beyond standard and slightly more spacious 'Green Car' seats, the Hayabusa is also equipped with a brand new 'Gran Class' car. As a throwback to the grand old days of rail travel, Gran Class passengers can enjoy reclining leather seats, free alcoholic drinks and limited-edition bento box lunches.

Source: Gadling