Aiming to reduce the burden on the environment, East Japan Railway Company (JR East) built a new energy (NE) train test railcar carrying a hybrid system, a new type of motive power system. We have been carrying out tests on this railcar since May 2003 to assess its running performance and energy saving effects.
As favorable results were achieved, JR East will build three hybrid railcars for commercial use, which will become the first hybrid trains to carry paying passengers in the world. We will collect comprehensive data during the first two years of operation and investigate the merits of mass production of such vehicles.

[Characteristics of the new hybrid train]

Kinder to the environment

• The hybrid system enables a variety of environmental benefits to be realized. Fuel consumption is reduced—by approximately 10% compared with the series kiha 110 trains currently in service on the Koumi Line—through effective utilization of regenerative energy from braking. The train engine is shut off during stops at stations, reducing noise by 30 dB.
• We also aim to reduce exhaust NOx, lead and other particulate matter by approximately 60% when combined with the effect of hybrid systems by using the latest countermeasure engines (common rail diesel engine) as diesel engines for power generation.

Increased comfort and usability for passengers

• The floor of the train will be lowered to reduce the difference in height between the train and the platform by 45 mm.
• Hand straps will be lowered by 40 mm around the priority seating and seats will be widened (by 20 mm per person in the two long rows of seats facing each other).
• Trains will be fitted with a large restroom with an automatic door to accommodate wheelchair users.

Less maintenance required

• Motors, control apparatus, air conditioning systems and other equipment used in the latest commuter trains will be employed, which require less maintenance.