Set 6012 of the EMU Seibu 6000 series with a white colored face
I introduced the outline of Seibu's commuter train, EMU 6000 series, six years ago. Today, I am going to follow up and explain this model in more detail.
The 6000 series is a multi-purpose train for the Seibu line and its direct operation lines. It was launched in 1992, when the direct operation between the Seibu-Ikebukuro and the Eidan (present Tokyo Metro)-Yurakucho lines was commenced. One set of the 6000 series consists of 6 motor cars and 4 trailers (6M4T). A total of 25 sets, 250 units, were built by Tokyu Sharyo and Hitachi. The electric control system is GTO (Gate Turn-Off thyristor)-VVVF (Variable frequency drive) with induction motors. This model has changed the image of the Seibu trains from the dowdy yellow trains to the urban sophisticated ones.
The early 17 sets (the first to the 4th batches) have stainless-steel bodies; meanwhile, the late 8 sets (the 5th to the 7th batches) have aluminum bodies. The early 22 sets (the first to the 5th batches) have windows on the door pockets; meanwhile, the late 3 sets (the 6th to the 7th batches) don't have such windows to reduce manufacturing cost. The early 2 sets have silver colored front faces; meanwhile, late 23 sets have white colored front faces. I am very happy to perceive this kind of fine difference among the trains as a trainspotter.
Currently, the 6000 series is directly operated onto the Tokyo Metro-Fukutoshin line, the Tokyu-Toyoko line and the Yokohama Minato Mirai Railway.
Set 6101 of the EMU Seibu 6000 series with a silver colored face
Official information about the EMU Seibu 6000 series (in Japanese):