If you’re a frequent traveler, you may have noticed that some train seats can be flipped over to change the direction of the seat. These are called reversible train seats, and they are a convenient feature that allows for more flexibility in seating arrangements. While Sydney, Australia is known for its reversible train seats, there are other rail networks around the world that also use them.
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Reversible Train Seats in West Germany
DB (West Germany) used to have reversible train seats. Two historic examples from Germany can be given because they are well-known for their use of these seats. Here are the seats in an old German railbus (1955). The seat backs are cushioned on both sides and can be moved/flipped with a simple mechanism. Additionally, the German InterCityExpress (ICE) trains also have reversible seats.
Reversible Train Seats in Other Countries
Besides Germany and Australia, other countries have embraced the use of reversible train seats. For example, the UK’s Great Western Railway uses them on some of its trains. In Japan, the Shinkansen bullet train has reversible seats in its Green Car class. The trains in the Netherlands, Belgium, and France also use reversible seats.
The Invention of Reversible Train Seats
But were reversible train seats invented in Sydney? No, they were not. In fact, the concept of reversible train seats dates back to the early 1900s. The first known patent for a reversible train seat was filed in 1907 by a man named Albert Hunt. Hunt was an American inventor who came up with the idea of a reversible train seat that could be flipped over to face the opposite direction.
See Related: How many trains are there between Brisbane and Sydney?
Conclusion
In conclusion, reversible train seats are a convenient feature that allows for more flexibility in seating arrangements. While Sydney, Australia is known for its reversible train seats, other rail networks around the world also use them. Reversible train seats were not invented in Sydney, but rather the concept dates back to the early 1900s. Whether you’re traveling through Germany, Japan, the UK, or other countries, keep an eye out for these handy seats on your next train journey.
Additional Resources
For more information on the history and use of reversible train seats, check out this article from Railway Technology: Reversible train seats history.
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