JR West says "A seat" will be launched on special rapid service train. Electrical outlet, free Wi-Fi, and table will be available.
headlines.yahoo.co.jp
(Translation begins)
On October 24, JR West announced some seats on special rapid service will be replaced with A seat, a seat reservation system
The objective special rapid service is the trains on Hokuriku, Tokaido, and Sanyo Main Line nicknamed "Biwako, JR Kyoto, JR Kobe Line" respectively.
Car No.9 out of 12 cars will be replaced with an A seat car.
Interior design will be renovated to serve tranquil atmosphere. Seats will be changed with reclining chairs with tables. And, this is the first time for conventional lines on JR West that an electrical outlet will be furnished with every seat. Free Wi-Fi and luggage storage will also be available.
Reservation fee is 500 Yen. The car has 46 seats. When using, you shall purchase a reservation ticket from train conductor by cash or IC cards after sitting on vacant seat.
The car is manufactured by renovating current 2 rolling stocks of the 223 series train(1000s). 4 trains per day will be operated from the next spring/
JR West aims at developing areas along JR lines so as to let people want to visit and live there by living up to diverse demands from customers through adding comfort to special rapid service, the axis train in Kinki Area.
(Translation ends)
Since JR lines in Kinki Area has failed to attract passengers by offering reservation ticket systems on local trains, I'd like to expect A seat will be expanded to other trains.
