The trains on the Taipei Metro’s Brown Line will be refurbished for greater passenger comfort. So far, one train has been equipped with the new seating layout, which has narrower and lower seats better adapted to the body. The new arrangement also increases the number of seats and frees up space for wheelchairs and baby buggies. The Taipei Metro says all trains on the line should complete the remodelling within the next two years.
At rush hour, the Taipei Metro’s Brown Line is packed with commuters, and sitting for the ride is out of the question. There just aren’t enough seats. Twenty-five years after opening, the Taipei Metro has decided to do a complete make-over.
Wang Fu-min
FTV reporter
The old seats had been designed by the manufacturer, and were not tailored to Taiwanese commuters. That’s why many people complain that they end up sliding down the seat. Not comfortable at all.
The new seats are placed 2 centimeters lower, and their width has been reduced from 60 to 46 centimeters, providing more body and leg support. The back of the seats has been modified too, to fit the body better. The narrower design also allows for up to 84 seats, up from the current 76.
Member of the public
I think it’s an improvement. The curvature is not as deep. Before, it used to be that one person got one seat. But now, you can cram in a kid as well.
Member of the public
Do they stick out less now? Or is it something else? They are more comfy, and it’s good that there are more seats available now.
The new layout has met with a good response from commuters. And the seats are not the only change. The handhold poles and baggage racks near the train doors have been removed to make for a more spacious interior, making access more seamless for wheelchairs and strollers. The space also increases capacity by 12 people, for a total accommodation of up to 360 passengers. So far, only one train has been fitted with the new layout.
Voice of Lee Wen-yuan
Taipei Metro
We put sample seat models in stations and have interviewed passengers trying them out to collect feedback.
After six months of trials, the new seat design and layout has been finalized. The Brown Line’s 50 trains will gradually get remodeled, with completion expected in less than two years. All this to give Taipei commuters more comfort when riding public transport.
