On March 15th, 2014, a new timetable started on the JR lines. Synchronizing the new timetable, JR East launched the new EMU E7 series on the Nagano Shinkansen.
The main purpose for the introduction of the E7 series is in preparation for the opening of Hokuriku Shinkansen between Nagano and Kanazawa stations in the spring of next year. The E7 series will gradually replace the present Shinkansen train, the E2-N series. Although the operating speed of the E7 series is limited up to 260km/hour, many innovations are implemented in this brand new train. For instance, it has an active suspension system for ride quality improvement.
The interior of the E7 series is more sophisticated than those of the other Shinkansen trains. It has a modern design with a traditional Japanese style. LED lights, which reduce the electric consumption, are equipped in all cars.
I saw the E7 series at Tokyo station on the first day of the new timetable. It was the third E7 train arriving at and leaving Tokyo Station that day, but there were still plenty of rail fans thronging on platform 20 to see the brand new Shinkansen train. I could see the E7 series easily, since I was standing at the opposite platform on the Tokaido Main Line. I know Tokyo Station yard like the back of my hand, as it is my everyday use terminal.
I look forward to riding the E7 series sometime soon.
The main purpose for the introduction of the E7 series is in preparation for the opening of Hokuriku Shinkansen between Nagano and Kanazawa stations in the spring of next year. The E7 series will gradually replace the present Shinkansen train, the E2-N series. Although the operating speed of the E7 series is limited up to 260km/hour, many innovations are implemented in this brand new train. For instance, it has an active suspension system for ride quality improvement.
The interior of the E7 series is more sophisticated than those of the other Shinkansen trains. It has a modern design with a traditional Japanese style. LED lights, which reduce the electric consumption, are equipped in all cars.
I saw the E7 series at Tokyo station on the first day of the new timetable. It was the third E7 train arriving at and leaving Tokyo Station that day, but there were still plenty of rail fans thronging on platform 20 to see the brand new Shinkansen train. I could see the E7 series easily, since I was standing at the opposite platform on the Tokaido Main Line. I know Tokyo Station yard like the back of my hand, as it is my everyday use terminal.
I look forward to riding the E7 series sometime soon.
More information about the EMU JR East E7 series: