209 series

The 209 series (209系) is an electric multiple unit (EMU) commuter train type operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) in the Tokyo area of Japan since 1993.

209 series
A 209-0 series set on the Keihin–Tōhoku Line approaching Saitama-Shintoshin Station, October 2006
In service1992–present
ManufacturerJR East, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Tokyu Car Corporation
ReplacedKiHa 35, 103 series, 113 series, 211 series
Constructed1992–2005
Entered service7 May 1992 (901/209-900 series)
15 February 1993 (209-0 series)
Number built1,046 vehicles
Number in service442 vehicles (as of December 2021)
Number preserved1 vehicle
SuccessorE131 series, E233 series
Formation4/6/8/10 cars per trainset
OperatorsJR East
DepotsKawagoe, Keiyō, Makuhari, Nakahara, Toyoda
Lines servedChūō Line (Rapid), Hachikō Line, Kashima Line, Kawagoe Line, Keiyō Line, Musashino Line, Narita Line, Ōme Line, Sotobō Line, Sōbu Main Line, Tōgane Line, Uchibō Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Car length20,000 mm (65 ft 7 in)
Width2,966 mm (9 ft 8.8 in) (209-500 series)
2.87 m (9 ft 5 in) (other)
Doors4/6 pairs per side
Maximum speed110 km/h (68.4 mph)
Traction systemVariable frequency (GTO, IGBT)
Power output1,520 kW (6 motors)
Acceleration2.5 km/(h⋅s) (1.6 mph/s)
3.3 km/(h⋅s) (2.1 mph/s) (209-1000 series)
Deceleration4.0 km/(h⋅s) (2.5 mph/s)(service)
4.5 km/(h⋅s) (2.8 mph/s) (emergency)
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead
Current collector(s)PS28 diamond-shaped pantograph
PS21 diamond-shaped pantograph (209-1000 series)
PS33A single-arm pantograph (209-500 series)
Braking system(s)Regenerative brake, electronically controlled pneumatic brakes
Safety system(s)ATS-P, ATS-SN, ATC, Digital ATC
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

The series was introduced in 1992 for experimental operations (as the 901 series) and in 1993 for commercial operations to replace the aging 103 series stock on the Keihin–Tōhoku and Negishi lines. The concept of the 209 series was to create a lower-cost, minimal lifespan train (approximately 15 years) that would be replaced rather than rebuilt when they became life-expired.[1]

The 209 series was the first of the "New series trains" (新系列電車, Shin-keiretsu densha), and served as the basis for the E501, E217, 701, and E127 series rolling stock, as well as the succeeding E231 series stock, which in turn became the blueprint for successive trains developed by JR East and other railway companies in Japan.

Variants

Former operations

209-0 series

209-0 series
A Keihin–Tōhoku 10-car 209-0 series set in March 2009
In service1993–2015
Replaced103 series, 205 series
Constructed1992–1997
Entered service1993
Scrapped2008–2016
Number built792 vehicles
Number in serviceNone (324 vehicles converted to 209-2000/2100 series; 18 vehicles converted to 209-2200 series; 7 vehicles converted to MUE-Train; 6 vehicles converted for training units)
Number scrapped437 vehicles
Formation10 cars per trainset (Keihin-Tōhoku & Negishi Lines)
6 cars per trainset (Nambu Line)
OperatorsJR East
DepotsUrawa, Nakahara
Lines servedKeihin–Tōhoku Line, Nambu Line, Negishi Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4/6 pairs per side
Traction systemMitsubishi GTO-VVVF
Traction motorsMT68
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

The original full-production version introduced on both the Keihin–TōhokuNegishi (78 ten-car sets numbered 1–78) and Nambu (2 six-car sets numbered 1 and 32) lines in 1993. Six-door SaHa 208 cars were inserted into the Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line sets in 1995.

The 209 series trains on the Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line were replaced by new E233-1000 series trains from autumn 2007, with the last sets withdrawn by 24 January 2010.[3] A large number of these units were subsequently rebuilt as 209-2000/2100 series four-car and six-car sets for use in the Chiba area, while some were converted as training sets, MUE-Train, or 209-2200 series sets for the Nambu Line.

Formations

Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line 10-car sets

Previously, 78 ten-car sets (1–78) were based at Urawa depot and were formed as shown below, with four motored ("M") cars and six non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[4]

 
← Ōmiya
Ōfuna →
 
Car No.10987654321
DesignationTcTMM'T'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209SaHa 209MoHa 209MoHa 208SaHa 208SaHa 209MoHa 209MoHa 208KuHa 208
  • Cars 3 and 8 were each equipped with one PS28 pantograph.[4]
  • Car 6 was a "6-door" car with six pairs of doors on each side.[4]

Nambu Line 6-car sets

Previously, two six-car sets (1 and 32) were based at Nakahara Depot and were formed as shown below, with four motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[5]

 
← Kawasaki
Tachikawa →
 
 
 
Car No.123456
DesignationTcMM'MM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209MoHa 209MoHa 208MoHa 209MoHa 208KuHa 208
  • Cars 2 and 4 were each equipped with one PS28 lozenge-type pantograph.[5]

209-500 series

209-500 series
Musashino Line 209-500 series set M75 on a Local service in October 2019
In service1998–present
Replaced103 series, 201 series, 205 series
Constructed1998–2000
Entered service29 December 1998
Refurbished2016–2019
Scrapped2017–
Number built170 vehicles
Number in service98 vehicles (12 sets)
(+20 vehicles converted to 209-3500 series)
Number scrapped52 vehicles
Formation8/10 cars per trainset
Fleet numbersKeiyō Line: 34
Musashino Line: M71-M77, M81-M84
OperatorsJR East
DepotsKeiyō
Previously: Mitaka, Narashino, Urawa
Lines servedKeiyō Line, Musashino Line, Sotobō Line, Uchibō Line
Previously: Chūō–Sōbu Line, Keihin–Tōhoku Line, Negishi Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,950 mm (9 ft 8 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Traction systemIGBT-VVVF (Mitsubishi)
Previously: GTO-VVVF
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

This sub-series represented a stop-gap for use from 1998 on the Chūō–Sōbu Line until the full-production E231 series trains were delivered, and a total of 17 ten-car sets (numbered 51–67) were delivered to Narashino Depot in Chiba. These sets differ noticeably from the other 209 series variants in having 2.95 m (9 ft 8 in) wide cars (compared to 2.87 m (9 ft 5 in) for earlier flat-sided stock), as well as LED destination indicators, replacing the earlier roller blind type. While externally similar in appearance to the later E231 series sets, the 209-500 series are distinguishable by their white cab fronts and lack of six-door cars.

In November 2000, two sets (66 and 67) were transferred to the Keihin–TōhokuNegishi Line and renumbered 80 and 81. In December 2003, the Chūō–Sōbu Line sets were reallocated to Mitaka Depot and renumbered 501–515. Between 2005 and 2006, set 515 was lent to the Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line as a spare during car maintenance. Between 2006 and 2007, three more sets (513–515) were transferred to the Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line to replace the prototype 209-900/910/920 series trains and renumbered 82–84. From October 2008, following the introduction of E233-1000 series trains on the Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line, one set (80) was transferred back to the Chūō–Sōbu Line (as set 516) while the other four sets (81–84) were modified (with ATS-P/SN instead of ATC) and transferred to the Keiyō Line (as sets 31–34).

From September 2010 to January 2011, three former Keiyō Line sets (31–33) were reduced to eight cars and reliveried for use on the Musashino Line, renumbered M71–M73, and entered service from 4 December 2010.[5] In 2012, a "C" suffix was added to all Chūō–Sōbu Line sets (C501–C512 and C516).

From 2018, five Chūō–Sōbu Line sets (C501–C505) were converted to 4-car 209-3500 series sets for use on Kawagoe Line and Hachikō Line services,[6] while the remaining eight sets (C506–C512 and C516) were reduced to 8 cars and reallocated to the Musashino Line and renumbered M74–M77 and M81–M84. The last Chūō–Sōbu Line set, set C511, was withdrawn from service on 19 April 2019.[7]

All sets were refurbished between 2016 and 2019, when the GTO-VVVF traction system was replaced with an IGBT-VVVF traction system.

Set transfer history

The following table shows the transfer history for each of the 17 sets.

1998–20182018–present
501–505
(5 sets)
Chūō–Sōbu Line
51–55→501–505→C501–C505
Converted to 209-3500 series for
Hachikō/Kawagoe Line
1999–20182018–present
506–509
(4 sets)
Chūō–Sōbu Line
56–59→506–509→C506–C509
Musashino Line
M81–M84
1999–20192019–present
510–512
(3 sets)
Chūō–Sōbu Line
60–62→510–512→C510–C512
Musashino Line
M75–M77
2000–20062006–20082008–20102010–present
513–514
(2 sets)
Chūō–Sōbu Line
63–64→513–514
Keihin–Tōhoku Line
82–83
Keiyō Line
31–32
Musashino Line
M71–M72
2000–20052005–200620062006–20082008–20102010–present
515 Chūō–Sōbu Line
65→515
Keihin–Tōhoku Line
515
Chūō–Sōbu Line
515
Keihin–Tōhoku Line
84
Keiyō Line
33
Musashino Line
M73
20002001–20092009–20182018–present
516 Chūō–Sōbu Line
66
Keihin–Tōhoku Line
80
Chūō–Sōbu Line
516→C516
Musashino Line
M74
20002001–20082009–present
517 Chūō–Sōbu Line
67
Keihin–Tōhoku Line
81
Keiyō Line
34

Formations

10-car sets

As of 1 October 2018, one set (34) is allocated to Keiyō Depot for use on the Keiyō Line (and through services to the Sotobō and Uchibō Lines). The set is formed as follows with four motored ("M") cars and six non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[8]

 
← Kazusa-Minato, Kazusa-Ichinomiya, Kimitsu, Soga
Tokyo →
 
Car No.10987654321
DesignationTcTMM'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500KuHa 208-500
  • Cars 3 and 8 each have one single-arm pantograph.[8]
  • Cars 1 and 10 have a wheelchair space.[8]
  • Car 4 is designated as a mildly air-conditioned car.[8]

8-car sets

As of 1 January 2020, 11 eight-car sets (M71 to M77, M81 to M84) were allocated to Keiyō Depot for use on Musashino Line (and through services to the Keiyō Line).[8] These sets are formed as follows with four motored ("M") cars and four non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[8]

 
← Tokyo, Kaihinmakuhari, Nishi-Funabashi
Fuchūhommachi →
 
 
 
Car No.12345678
DesignationTcMM'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500KuHa 208-500
  • Cars 2 and 6 each have one pantograph (single-arm on sets M71–M77, lozenge-type on sets M81– M84).
  • Cars 1 and 8 have a wheelchair space.[8]
  • Car 4 is designated as a mildly air-conditioned car.[8]

Previous formations

Chūō–Sōbu Line 10-car sets (1998 to 2019)

 
← Chiba, Tsudanuma
Nakano, Mitaka →
 
Car No.12345678910
DesignationTcTMM'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500KuHa 208-500

Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line 10-car sets (2001 to 2009)

 
← Ōmiya
Ōfuna →
 
Car No.10987654321
DesignationTcTMM'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500SaHa 209-500MoHa 209-500MoHa 208-500KuHa 208-500

209-900/910/920 series

209-900/910/920 series
901 series Set C (later 209-920 series) in March 1993
In service1992–2007
Constructed1992
Entered service7 May 1992
Scrapped2007–2008
Number built30 vehicles
Number preserved1 vehicle (at Tōkyō General Rolling Stock Center)
Number scrapped29 vehicles
Formation10 cars per trainset
OperatorsJR East
DepotsUrawa
Lines servedKeihin–Tōhoku Line, Negishi Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

Three ten-car prototypes were built in 1992 for testing and passenger evaluation on the Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line, initially classified as 901 series. Set A was built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, set B by Tokyu Car Corporation, and set C was built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and JR East's Ōfuna factory (cars 4 and 5). The three sets incorporated a number of different design features for evaluation, but were converted in 1994 to bring them in line with the full-production specifications. Set A became 209-900 series set 90, set B became 209-910 series set 91, and set C became 209-920 series set 92. They differed from the full-production 209-0 series sets in not having six-door SaHa 208 cars.[9]

209-910 series set 91 was withdrawn in December 2006, and the last of the three prototype sets, set 90, was withdrawn in August 2007.[10] Car KuHa 209-901 from the original 901 series set A was stored at Nagano Works,[11] and later preserved at Tōkyō General Rolling Stock Center.

Formation

 
← Ōmiya
Ōfuna →
 
Car No.10987654321
DesignationTcTMM'TMM'Tc'
Numbering (1992 to 1994)KuHa 901SaHa 901MoHa 901MoHa 900SaHa 901MoHa 901MoHa 900KuHa 900
Numbering (1994 to 2007)KuHa 209-900SaHa 209-900MoHa 209-900MoHa 208-900SaHa 208-900SaHa 209-900MoHa 209-900MoHa 208-900KuHa 208-900
KuHa 209-910SaHa 209-910MoHa 209-910MoHa 208-910SaHa 208-910SaHa 209-910MoHa 209-910MoHa 208-910KuHa 208-910
KuHa 209-920SaHa 209-920MoHa 209-920MoHa 208-920SaHa 208-920SaHa 209-920MoHa 209-920MoHa 208-920KuHa 208-920

209-950 series

This was the original classification given to the prototype E231 series 10-car set delivered in October 1998, to test out the then-new insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) traction system and TIMS passenger information system. It was reclassified as E231-900 series in June 2000 following conversion to the full-production E231 standard.[12]

209-1000 series

209-1000 series
A Chūō Line (Rapid) 10-car 209-1000 series set in November 2022 near Musashi-Sakai
In service1999–present
Constructed1999
Entered serviceDecember 1999
Number built20 vehicles (2 sets)
Number in service20 vehicles (2 sets)
Formation10 cars per trainset
Fleet numbers81–82
OperatorsJR East
DepotsToyoda (2019-present)
Previously: Matsudo (1999-2018)
Lines servedChūō Line (Rapid), Ōme Line
Previously: Jōban Line, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Traction systemGTO-VVVF (Mitsubishi)
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

Two 10-car sets (81 and 82) were delivered from Tokyu Car Corporation in August and September 1999, entering service from 4 December 1999 on Jōban Line and Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line inter-running services. Based on the 209-0 series, these trains have end doors for use in emergencies inside tunnels. These sets were based at JR East's Matsudo depot. These train sets have since been withdrawn from the Jōban Line in October 2018 and reallocated to the Chūō Line (Rapid) in December 2018, being based at JR East's Toyoda Depot after the reallocation. Operations officially started on the Chūō Line in March 2019.

While these sets usually operate only between Tokyo and Takao, on rare occasions (such as a shortage of train sets due to an accident) they may operate as far as Ōtsuki, or on the Ōme Line as far as Ōme. Furthermore, unlike the E233 series in use, due to the lack of passenger-operated door controls, all doors open on these sets while in use on the Ōme Line.

Formation

As of 16 March 2021, two 10-car sets (81–82) are allocated to Toyoda Depot and are formed as follows with six motored ("M") cars and four non-powered trailer ("T") cars.

 
← Tōkyō
Ōtsuki →
 
Car No.12345678910
DesignationTcMM'TMM'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-1000MoHa 209-1000MoHa 208-1000SaHa 209-1000MoHa 209-1000MoHa 208-1000SaHa 209-1000MoHa 209-1000MoHa 208-1000KuHa 208-1000
  • Cars 2, 5 and 8 each have one single-arm pantograph.
  • Cars 2 and 9 have wheelchair space.
  • Car 4 is designated as a mildly air-conditioned car.

Previous formation

10-car Jōban Line sets (1999 to 2018)

 
← Toride, Ayase
Yoyogi-Uehara →
 
Car No.10987654321
DesignationTcMM'TMM'TMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-1000MoHa 209-1000MoHa 208-1000SaHa 209-1000MoHa 209-1000MoHa 208-1000SaHa 209-1000MoHa 209-1000MoHa 208-1000KuHa 208-1000
  • Cars 3, 6 and 9 were originally fitted with PS21 lozenge type pantographs,[13] but were converted to single-arm models in 2014.[8]
  • Cars 2 and 9 had wheelchair space.
  • Car 4 was designated as a mildly air-conditioned car.

Interior

209-2000/2100 series

209-2000/2100 series
A Chiba-area 209-2100 series 6-car train in June 2021
In service2009–present
Replaced211 series
Entered service1 October 2009
Refurbished2009–2013 (converted from 209-0 series)
Number built324 vehicles
Number in service276 vehicles (62 sets)
Number preserved8 vehicles stored
Number scrapped30 vehicles
SuccessorE131 series (rural services)
Formation4/6 cars per trainset
Fleet numbersC401–C448, C602–C604, C606–C608, C610, C615, C617, C621–C625
OperatorsJR East
DepotsMakuhari
Lines servedNarita Line, Sōbu Main Line, Sotobō Line, Tōgane Line, Uchibō Line Future: Izu Kyūkō Line
Previously: Kashima Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Traction systemMitsubishi IGBT-VVVF
Traction motorsMT73 (prior to conversion – MT68)
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

These are four- and six-car sets based at Makuhari Depot modified between 2009 and 2013 from former Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line 209-0 series ten-car sets for use on Chiba area and Bōsō Peninsula local services from 1 October 2009 to replace ageing 211 series trains. Modifications include new electrical equipment, the addition of transverse seating to end cars, LED destination indicator panels, and a toilet.[14] The cars are numbered in the -2100 series, although nine four-car sets have end cars numbered in the -2000 series. The -2000 series cars are converted from early batch 209-0 series units with air-operated doors rather than the electrically operated doors of later batch units.[15]

The first four-car set (C417) was outshopped from Nagano Works in June 2009, while the first six-car set (C602) was outshopped from Ōmiya Works in July 2009.[5] The entire conversion process was completed in 2013, and a total of 42 four-car sets (C401–C442) and 26 six-car sets (C601–C626) were formed.

From 13 March 2021, they were replaced on rural services with new E131 series trains.[16] Six 6-car sets were shortened to 4-car sets between February and March 2021; the two surplus cars from each set along with three others 6-car sets (C612, C618, C626) were scrapped between April and May 2021.[17]

In July 2021, 6-car set C609 was removed from JR service and delivered to Izukyū Corporation,[18] and four cars from set C601 were delivered in November 2021.[18] These sets entered service on 30 April 2022 as the Izukyu 3000 series.[19]

The table below shows the converted sets.[17]

Former 6-car setConversion dateNew 4-car set
C60515 March 2021C443
C6114 March 2021C444
C6131 March 2021C445
C61422 March 2021C446
C6168 March 2021C447
C62024 February 2021C448

Formations

6-car sets

As of 22 December 2021, 14 six-car sets (C602–C604, C606–C608, C610, C615, C617, C621–C625) are based at Makuhari Depot and were formed as shown below, with four motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[8]

 
← Awa-Kamogawa, Chōshi
Chiba →
 
 
Car No.654321
DesignationTcMM'MM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-2100MoHa 209-2100MoHa 208-2100MoHa 209-2100MoHa 208-2100KuHa 208-2100
  • Cars 3 and 5 are each equipped with one lozenge-type pantograph.[5]

4-car sets

As of 24 March 2021, 48 four-car sets (C401–C448) are based at Makuhari Depot and were formed as shown below, with two motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[8]

 
← Awa-Kamogawa, Chōshi
Chiba →
 
 
Car No.4321
DesignationTcMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-2000/2100MoHa 209-2100MoHa 208-2100KuHa 208-2000/2100
  • Car 3 is equipped with one lozenge-type pantograph.[5]

Interior

Passenger accommodation consists primarily of longitudinal seating, with the end cars featuring some transverse seating bays. Car 2 is fitted with a toilet in all sets.

209-2200 series

209-2200 series
209-2200 series "B.B.Base" set J1 in January 2021
In service2009–present
Replaced209-0 series
205-1200 series
Constructed1993–1995
Entered serviceNambu Line: June 2009
B.B.Base: January 2018
Refurbished2009–2010, 2017
Scrapped2015
Number built18 vehicles (3 sets)
Number in service6 vehicles (1 set)
Number scrapped12 vehicles (2 sets)
Formation6 cars per trainset
Fleet numbersJ1
Previously: 52–54
OperatorsJR East
DepotsMakuhari
Previously: Nakahara
Lines servedUchibō Line, Sotobō Line, Narita Line, Sōbu Main Line
Previously: Nambu Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

Between 2009 and 2010, three six-car sets were reformed from former Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line 209-0 series ten-car sets for use on Nambu Line services, replacing the early-batch 209-0 series set and a 205-1200 series set.[20] The first set, number 52, was outshopped in May 2009, and entered service on 12 June 2009.[21] Modifications include new electrical equipment and the addition of LED destination indicator panels.[22]

Two sets (52 and 54) were removed from service and replaced by new E233-8000 series trains in 2015. These two sets were scrapped.

The last remaining Nambu Line 209-2200 series trainset, set 53, was removed from services from 15 March 2017, being replaced by an E233-8500 series set.[23] The set was modified for use as a train for carrying cyclists and their bicycles from Ryogoku in Tokyo to various destinations on the Uchibō Line, Sotobō Line, Narita Line, and Sōbu Main Line on the Bōsō Peninsula. Branded "B.B.Base" (an abbreviation for "Boso Bicycle Base"), it re-entered service on 6 January 2018.[24]

Formation

B.B.Base 6-car set

One six-car set (J1) is based at Makuhari Depot and is formed as shown below, with four motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[24]

 
← Wadaura, Awa-Kamogawa, Chōshi, Sawara
Ryōgoku →
 
Car No.654321
DesignationTcMM'MM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-2200MoHa 209-2200MoHa 208-2200MoHa 209-2200MoHa 208-2200KuHa 208-2200
Seating capacity2020-201920
  • Cars 3 and 5 each have one PS33F single-arm pantograph.[24]
  • Cars 1 to 3 and 5 to 6 have fixed seating bays arranged 2+1 abreast with cycle racks provided next to each of the doorways, while car 4 has an open configuration with bench seating on one side and a bar counter.
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilets are provided in cars 2 and 4.[24]

Previous formations

Nambu Line 6-car sets

Previously, three six-car sets (52–54) were based at Nakahara Depot and were formed as shown below, with four motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[5]

 
← Kawasaki
Tachikawa →
 
 
 
Car No.123456
DesignationTcMM'MM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-2200MoHa 209-2200MoHa 208-2200MoHa 209-2200MoHa 208-2200KuHa 208-2200
  • Cars 2 and 4 were each equipped with one PS28A lozenge-type pantograph.[8]

209-3000 series

209-3000 series
Kawagoe/Hachikō Line 209-3000 series set 61 in April 2017
In service1996–2019
ReplacedKiHa 35
Constructed1996
Entered service16 March 1996
Scrapped2018 (2 vehicles), 2020 (12 vehicles)
Number built16 vehicles (4 sets)
Number in serviceNone
(2 vehicles converted to training units)
Number scrapped14 vehicles
Successor209-3500 series, E231-3000 series
Formation4 cars per trainset
Fleet numbers61–64
OperatorsJR East
DepotsKawagoe
Lines servedHachikō Line, Kawagoe Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

Four four-car 6th-batch sets were introduced on 16 March 1996 for use on the Kawagoe Line and newly electrified southern section of the Hachikō Line. These sets (numbers 61 to 64) were based at JR East's Kawagoe depot.[25] While visually similar to the original 209-0 sub-series, these sets differ in having passenger-operated door controls.[12]

These sets were displaced by newly refurbished E231-3000 series and 209-3500 series sets entering service from 2017 and 2018, with the last set withdrawn in February 2019. In late 2018, two cars of set 62 were formed into a training unit and the other two cars were scrapped; the remaining three sets were scrapped in early 2020.[citation needed]

Interior

For a short period in 2004, KuHa 209-3003 of set 63 was fitted with transverse seating bays to increase seating capacity. It was later reverted to standard longitudinal bench seating.[12]

Between February and March 2007, some of the previously sealed windows in each car were modified to allow them to be opened.[12]

Formation (former Hachikō and Kawagoe Line sets)

The four four-car sets were based at Kawagoe depot in Saitama and formed as shown below with two motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.[26]

 
← Kawagoe
Hachiōji →
 
 
Car No.4321
DesignationTcMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-3000MoHa 209-3000MoHa 208-3000KuHa 208-3000

Build details

SetManufacturerDate delivered
61Kawasaki Heavy IndustriesJanuary 1996
62Tokyu Car Corporation
63February 1996
64

209-3100 series

209-3100 series
Kawagoe/Hachikō Line 209-3100 series train at Komagawa station
In service2005–2022
Replaced103-3000 series, 103-3500 series
Constructed1995, 1996, 2002 (former TWR 70-000 series cars); 2005 (new build cars)
Entered service17 April 2005
Refurbished2004–2005
Number built8 vehicles (2 sets)
Number in serviceNone
Successor209-3500 series, E231-3000 series
Formation4 cars per trainset
Fleet numbers71–72
OperatorsJR East
DepotsKawagoe
Lines servedHachikō Line, Kawagoe Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,870 mm (9 ft 5 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Traction systemGTO-VVVF (Mitsubishi)
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

This sub-series of two four-car sets was introduced on 17 April 2005 as part of the scheme to eliminate 103 series sets from the Kawagoe Line and the Hachikō Line.[27] Set number 71 consists of two former Tokyo Waterfront Railway 70-000 series control cars with two newly manufactured intermediate cars, while set number 72 consists entirely of former 70-000 series cars. The 70-000 series cars had become surplus when six-car sets were reformed into ten-car sets in 2004. Like the 209-3000 series, these sets have passenger-operated door controls.[12]

After being displaced by the 209-3500 and E231-3000 series sets, these sets were taken out of service in October 2019.[28] However, they re-entered service and served as additional trains as the 209-3500 and E231-3000 series sets were modified for wanman driver-only operations.[29] They were removed from service in January 2022 after a special retirement tour event;[30] the sets were then officially retired on 11 March 2022.

Formation

The two four-car sets were based at Kawagoe depot in Saitama and formed as shown below with two motored ("M") cars and two non-powered trailer ("T") cars.

 
← Kawagoe
Hachiōji →
 
 
Car No.4321
DesignationTcMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-3100MoHa 209-3100MoHa 208-3100KuHa 208-3100

Former TWR 70-000 series conversions

TWR 70-000 series EMU in December 2002

The identities of the six former 70-000 series cars converted in 2004 and 2005 to become 209-3100 series EMUs are as shown below.[26]

Car numberSet numberFormer car numberDate returned to traffic
KuHa 209-31017170-02014 March 2005
KuHa 208-310170-029
KuHa 209-31027270-03016 December 2004
MoHa 209-310270-027
MoHa 208-310270-028
KuHa 209-310270-039

209-3500 series

209-3500 series
Kawagoe/Hachikō Line 209-3500 series set, June 2018
In service2018–present
Replaced205-3000 series, 209-3000 series, 209-3100 series
Constructed1998–1999
Entered service2018
Refurbished2017–2018 (converted from 209 to 500 series)
2020–2021 (modified for driver-only operation)
Number built20 vehicles (5 sets)
Number in service20 vehicles (5 sets)
Formation4 cars per trainset
Fleet numbers51–55
OperatorsJR East
DepotsKawagoe
Lines servedHachikō Line, Kawagoe Line
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,950 mm (9 ft 8 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

From 2018, five former 209-500 series ten-car sets based at Mitaka Depot for use on Chūō–Sōbu Line services were reformed and converted to become four-car 209-3500 series sets based at Kawagoe for use on Kawagoe Line and Hachikō Line services.[6]

Between November 2020 and October 2021, the trains were modified for driver-only operation (wanman (ワンマン, "one man")).

Formation

 
← Kawagoe
Hachiōji →
 
 
Car No.4321
DesignationTcMM'Tc'
NumberingKuHa 209-3500MoHa 209-3500MoHa 208-3500KuHa 208-3500

Former set/car identities

The former identities of the 209-3500 series sets are as follows.[31]

Set No.Car numbersFormer set No.Former car numbers
51KuHa 209-3501MoHa 209-3501MoHa 208-3501KuHa 208-3501C501KuHa 209-501MoHa 209-502MoHa 208-502KuHa 208-501
52KuHa 209-3502MoHa 209-3502MoHa 208-3502KuHa 208-3502C502KuHa 209-502MoHa 209-504MoHa 208-504KuHa 208-502
53KuHa 209-3503MoHa 209-3503MoHa 208-3503KuHa 208-3503C503KuHa 209-503MoHa 209-506MoHa 208-506KuHa 208-503
54KuHa 209-3504MoHa 209-3504MoHa 208-3504KuHa 208-3504C504KuHa 209-504MoHa 209-508MoHa 208-508KuHa 208-504
55KuHa 209-3505MoHa 209-3505MoHa 208-3505KuHa 208-3505C505KuHa 209-505MoHa 209-510MoHa 208-510KuHa 208-505

Training sets

Training sets
In service2008–present
Constructed1993, 1995–1996
Entered service2008
Refurbished2008, 2018–2019
Number built8 vehicles (converted from 209-0 series and 209-3000 series)
Number in service8 vehicles (4 sets)
Formation2 cars per trainset
OperatorsJR East
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,950 mm (9 ft 8 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

In 2008, three motored pairs from former Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line 209-0 series sets (MoHa 209-39/208-39 and MoHa 209-40/208-40 from set Ura 19, and MoHa 209-76/208-76 from set Ura 37) were fitted with driving cabs and converted into training sets. These sets were assigned to Yokohama, Hachiōji, and Ōmiya Training Centers. In 2018, one motored pair from a former Kawagoe/Hachikō Line 209-3000 series set (MoHa 209-3002/208-3002 from set Hae 62) was also fitted with driving cabs and converted into a training set. The existing three training sets were subsequently refurbished and reallocated.[citation needed]

Yokohama

From 2008, a training set consisting of KuMoHa 209-39/208-39 is allocated to Yokohama Training Center near Kurihama Station. The set is finished with pale yellow body stripes and bears the text "YOKOHAMA Training Center".[citation needed] It replaced the existing 105 series two-car training set located there.

Ōmiya

From 2018, a training set consisting of KuMoHa 209-3002/208-3002 is allocated to Ōmiya Training Center. The set is finished with Shōnan green/orange body stripes and bears the text "TOKYO•OMIYA Training Center".[citation needed]

Between 2008 and 2018, set KuMoHa 209-76/208-76 was allocated to Ōmiya. This replaced the existing 103 series two-car training set located there.

Hachiōji

From 2019, a training set consisting of KuMoHa 209-76/208-76 is allocated to Hachiōji Training Center near Shin-Akitsu Station. The set is finished with orange body stripes and bears the text "HACHIOJI Training Center".[citation needed]

Between 2008 and 2019, set KuMoHa 209-40/208-40 was allocated to Hachiōji. This replaced the existing 105 series two-car training set located there.

Nagano

From 2019, a training set consisting of KuMoHa 209-40/208-40 is allocated to Nagano Training Center. The set is finished in with Nagano blue body stripes and bears the text "NAGANO Training Center".[citation needed] It replaced the existing 115 series two-car training set located there.

Shirakawa E991 series

A purpose-built four-car set based directly on the 209-0 series design and classified E991 series was delivered to JR East's training center in Shirakawa, Fukushima in 2000 for internal training use. Externally, it is finished with green body stripes on unpainted stainless steel. It is not considered a 209 series variant. It cannot run on its own power and must be towed by a locomotive.

MUE-Train

MUE-Train
MUE-Train undergoing testing in December 2020
In service2008–present
Constructed1992
Entered serviceNovember 2008
Refurbished2008 (converted from 209-0 series)
Number built7 vehicles
Number in service6 vehicles (1 set)
Number scrapped1 vehicle
Formation6 cars per trainset
OperatorsJR East
DepotsKawagoe
Specifications
Car body constructionStainless steel
Width2,950 mm (9 ft 8 in)
Doors4 pairs per side
Electric system(s)1,500 V DC overhead catenary
Track gauge1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

In October 2008, JR East unveiled the seven-car "MUE-Train" (MUltipurpose Experimental Train) experimental EMU converted from former Keihin–Tōhoku—Negishi Line 209 series set Ura 2. This set is used to test and develop new technology for use on future narrow-gauge trains. The train is based at Kawagoe Depot and began testing on the Utsunomiya Line from November 2008.[32]

Formation

2008–2009

Car No.1234567
NumberingKuYa 208-2MoYa 208-4MoYa 209-4SaYa 209-8MoYa 208-3MoYa 209-3KuYa 209-2

2010 onward

Car No.123567
NumberingKuYa 208-2MoYa 208-4MoYa 209-4MoYa 208-3MoYa 209-3KuYa 209-2

Cars 3 and 6 are each fitted with one PS33D single-arm pantograph.[13]

Accidents

On 8 May 2020, at 3:55 pm, the front carriage of a local service (6-car set C612) derailed between Awa-Kamogawa and Awa-Amatsu stations. Around 20 passengers and crew were on board the train when it derailed. One person was taken to a hospital.[33]

Preserved examples

KuHa 901-1 preserved at Tokyo General Rolling Stock Center in August 2010
  • KuHa 901-1 (previously KuHa 209-901), at the Tokyo General Rolling Stock Center in Shinagawa.[34]

See also

References

  • JR全車輌ハンドブック2006 [JR Rolling Stock Handbook 2006]. Japan: Neko Publishing. 2006. ISBN 978-4-7770-0453-9.

Further reading

  • 首都圏新系列車両 Profile: 209/E231/E233系グループの全貌 首都圏新系列車両PROFILE [Tokyo Area New-generation Rolling Stock Profile]. Japan: Ikaros Publishing. 15 April 2011. ISBN 978-4-86320-436-2.

External links