There are two brightness levels on a 700 and it does seem as if the 717s are on lower level by default.
I don't think the low level brightness on a 700 is intended for normal use and is called something like standby lighting or similar? At night it would be quite cool to drop the brightness, but I doubt anyone wants people to get too cosy and sleep - plus the obvious safety (even if just a perception of safety) issues.
Thanks, I thought so. I think a bright interior is good from a safety perspective although on a walk through train I'd say it's already pretty good. Does make me wonder why the dimming/brightening wasn't made automatic like on the 710s although I suppose 345s don't have any dimming either.
not much risk of people getting too comfortable and falling to sleep realistically, unless they bring their own cushions.
Many times I've fallen asleep on the 700s in the evening. Again, not everyone actually cares about hard seats and for the majority of the off peak, as you can spread out with nobody next to you the other 'issues' with the seats don't particularly matter.