Ichibata Electric Railway to Introduce New Deha 8000 Series in FY2024
Introduction Schedule
- June 2024: Manufacturing begins (at Goto Industries, Goto General Rolling Stock Facility).
- March 2, 2025 (Planned): Start of commercial operations.
- Future Plans: Additional cars to be introduced—1 car in FY2025 and 2 cars in FY2026.
Vehicle Overview
Basic Specifications
- Model: Deha 8000 Series (Car No. 8001).
- Length: 20.8 meters (2 doors on each side).
- Body Material: Stainless steel (steel used for the front section).
- Seating Capacity:
- Long Bench Configuration: 123 passengers.
- Dual Seat Configuration: 120 passengers (55 seated).
- Seat Layout: Combination of long benches and dual-purpose seats (convertible).
Operational Features
- Designed for single-car operation.
- Can be coupled with the 7000 series or similar models (includes a passage door in the driver’s cabin).
- Drive System: AC motor drive (two main motors, semi-powered car system: 0.5M).
- Control System: VVVF inverter control with regenerative braking, reducing power consumption by approximately 20%.
Key Improvements (Compared to the 7000 Series)
Seating Arrangement
- Box seats have been eliminated in favor of long bench seats as the standard.
- Dual-purpose convertible seats have been added to support both commuter and sightseeing needs.
Interior Design
- Floors, wall panels, and seat fabrics feature a calming color palette.
Exterior Design
- A clean stainless-steel body without wrapping.
- A simple orange stripe added to the lower body.
Passenger Information System
- Multilingual next-station displays installed in the cabin, supporting Japanese, English, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese.
Safety and Comfort Enhancements
- Security: Three onboard surveillance cameras.
- Reliability: Dual pantographs to prevent power loss during winter.
- Fully compliant with barrier-free guidelines.
Environmental and Energy Efficiency Measures
- VVVF inverter control and regenerative braking reduce electricity consumption by about 20% compared to the current 5000 series.
This introduction of the Deha 8000 Series aims to modernize Ichibata Electric Railway’s fleet, enhancing passenger experience while prioritizing sustainability and energy efficiency.