Identifying Factors to Improve the Coach Design and Service of the New-type EMU Sleeper Train: Findings from Passenger Satisfaction Survey

Abstract

In order to identify innovations, practices and ideas aimed to improve the coach design and service for new EMU sleeper trains, this study propose the coach characteristics of the new-type EMU sleeper train based on passenger satisfaction survey. Two passenger satisfaction questionnaires were developed, and the passengers’ impressions and comments ($n=686/198$) were collected during travel, the results were analyzed and suggestions were made for future coach design and service. The results indicated that the coach of the new-type EMU sleeper train would satisfy the needs of most passengers who travel in medium and long distances, providing increased capacity, reducing travel time, and improving passenger comfort. The findings could provide useful coach design and service guidelines for new EMU sleeper trains in the future.