Thursday, 7 January 2016

New and Old Models on the Hakone Tozan Line

Electric car Hakone Tozan Railway 3000 series (Allegra) stands at Miyanosihta Station
 
On November 1st, 2014, Hakone Tozan Railway launched a new electric car, the 3000 series. It was a new model for the first time in 18 years.

The 3000 series is an electric car, which is coupled and operated with the 2-car train, the 2000 series. Its nickname is Allegra (Hello) in Rumantsch. Why does a Japanese railway company use Rumantsch to name the train? It is because Hakone Tozan Railway ties up with Ratische Railway in Switzerland. As you may know, Rutmantsch is a local language in the southern part of Switzerland. The greatest characteristic of Allegra is its large windows, which provide the passengers with the beautiful scenery of Hakone Mountain.

On the contrary, what is the oldest model on the Hakone Tozan Railway? The answer is the MoHa 1 series. This model was originally launched in 1919. 86 years have already passed. Although it was remodelled in 1950, the MoHa 1 series still retains its classic design such as a large rounded light on the top of the face. A total of 6 units were remodelled by Kisha Kaisha, and 4 units (103, 104, 106 and 107) are still operated.

Which do I like better, the new model (the 3000 series, Allegra) or the old model (MoHa 1 series)? It is a difficult question for me. I like both. New and old models on the Hakone Tozan Line... they are essential pleasures for sightseers who visit Hakone Mountain.
 
Electric car Hakone Tozan Railway MoHa 1 series arrives at Miyanosihta Station
 
Official information about the electric car 3000 series, "Allegra" (in Japanese):
Official information about the electric car MoHa 1 series (in Japanese)
http://www.hakone-tozan.co.jp/train/