'Premium first-class' seats offered on bullet trains

China's high-speed rail network is offering a new luxury option for passengers on the bustling Beijing-Shanghai route, with "premium first-class" seats at a price point between business class and standard first class.

Twenty-four of the shell-shaped electric seats, in six rows in a dedicated carriage, allow for independent adjustments of the backrest and leg angles. Passengers can also enjoy amenities such as foldable tables, power outlets, adjustable reading lights and increased spacing between rows, enhancing comfort and convenience during their journey.

A unique feature of the seats is their ability to rotate 180 degrees, allowing passengers in adjacent rows to face each other. The layout is particularly beneficial for business travelers looking to conduct meetings onboard or for friends traveling together who wish to engage in face-to-face conversations or enjoy a game of cards.