On May 2nd, the Transportation Bureau, City of Yokohama launched a new train, EMU 4000 series, on their Blue line. Introduction of the new model-cars was for the first time in 5 years on the line.
Let me quickly review the Blue line to start. Yokohama is a giant city in the metropolitan area. It's the second largest city in Japan in population (3.7 million) after Tokyo. Subway lines are the major transportation arteries in the city. There're two lines namely the Blue line and the Green line being operated by the Transportation Bureau. The Blue line is the first subway route in the city. It was partially opened in 1972 between Kami-Ooka and Isesaki-Chojamachi (5.2 kilometers). Currently, there're 32 stations over the total operating length of 40.4 kilometers between Shonandai and Azamino terminals. The track gauge is 1,435 millimeters. The electric system is 750 V DC. The electric collecting system is the third rail without pantograph.
Let's head to the main topic, the EMU 4000 series. It was introduced to the Blue line to replace the old model, EMU 3000A series. Currently, only one set of the 6-car train is operated, but the Transportation Bureau plans to introduce seven more sets by March 2024. The 4000 series has 18 meter-long stainless-steel bodies with blue-colored stripes. The edgy body with use of many flat planes gives us a sharp impression. The vertical front lights are also fresh.
The 4000 series will soon be the symbol of the Blue line.
