Photo/Illutration A rendering of an E10 series Shinkansen currently in the making (Provided by East Japan Railway Co.)

East Japan Railway Co. is developing a next-generation bullet train for the Tohoku Shinkansen Line, focused on improving safety and passenger experience, with plans for a fiscal 2030 launch.

JR East announced on March 4 that the upcoming E10 series will succeed E2 and E5 series trains on the line connecting Tokyo and Aomori.

The E10 series will maintain the same top speed of 320 kph as the E5 series, the fastest in Japan.

However, the goal is for E10 trains to boast improved braking power to better respond to earthquakes and shorten the emergency stopping distance by 15 percent.

Additionally, the new trains are to be equipped with dampers to absorb horizontal seismic vibrations, enhancing passenger safety in the event of an earthquake. 

Design-wise, the exterior will feature shades of green inspired by the mountains of the Tohoku region and stripes themed around cherry blossom petals. 

Designated areas for work and study are another planned addition with a seat layout similar to that of the first-class Green Car. While there are still two seats on each side of the aisle, larger armrests and partitions are meant to enhance privacy for busy professionals and students.

One of the cars will have an appointed space for commercial freight with a separate, wider door for loading and unloading to keep passenger doors clear.

JR East aims to complete a prototype of the E10 series as early as autumn 2027 and conduct extensive test runs before starting commercial operation in fiscal 2030.

The company also plans to develop a variation of the E10 series for the planned extension of the Hokkaido Shinkansen Line to Sapporo.

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