Monday 4 June 2012

EMU 2100 Series, Flagship Model on the Keikyu Line


EMU Keikyu 2100 series limited express train passes through Kogane-cho Station
 
As I mentioned in my previous article (see my blog on October 31st, 2011), one of the features of railways in the Tokyo metropolitan area is that many companies are in competition to attract passengers.

Keikyu Corporation is no exception. For example, this company is facing fierce competition from JR East in the section between downtown Tokyo and Yokohama, a major city in Kanagawa Prefecture. Meanwhile, they are challenging Tokyo Monorail Company on the route between downtown Tokyo and Tokyo International Airport (Haneda).

As a regional private railway company, Keikyu has clear corporate strategies to survive in this challenging business environment. They are train speed and passenger service. The maximum speed of the trains is faster than that of JR East. As the top ranking passenger service, Keikyu operates the luxury limited express train without additional fares.

EMU 2100 series assume the major role of the above strategies (see the pictures). Its maximum speed is 120km/hour, and runs between Shinagawa and Yokohama in 17 minutes. The 2100 series train provides amenities, such as comfortable switchable cross seats and traditional Nishijin fabric curtains on the windows.

In the meantime, some of the 2100 series trains adopt the VVVF inverter (variable-frequency drive) system manufactured by Siemens. This system produces sol-fa sound when it boots up. It is quite unique and famous as the Singing Train among rail-fans.

Keikyu 2100 series is fun to look at and rides great.

 
EMU Keikyu 2100 series passes through Minami-Oota Station

More information about EMU Keikyu 2100 series (in Japanese): http://www.keikyu.co.jp/about/train/train_2100.html