Do you remember when I introduced you to Seibu Railway’s new train, which was purchased from Odakyu Electric Railway as the second-hand train. Three months have passed since then, and Seibu put into commercial operation of that commuter train under the name of “Seibu” 8000 series (see the top photo).
Let me review the history of this train in the Odakyu era to start. The Seibu 8000 series originally debuted as the EMU “Odakyu” 8000 series in 1983. A total of 32 sets, 160 units, were built by Nippon Sharyo, Tokyu Sharyo and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. It’s the oldest train in operation on the Odakyu line, and also known as the last of the steel body commuter trains on the line. Incidentally, the 8000 series implemented a variable frequency drive electric control system after the renovation.
41 years later, it was decided that a total of 7 sets, 42 units, of the Odakyu 8000 series would be transferred to Seibu Railway. It will save the acquisition cost of new trains for Seibu Railway. Furthermore, it will save the maintenance cost for train operations, as the variable frequency drive is equipped on the 8000 series. As you know, this system saves electricity consumption.
Lastly, please don’t forget that the EMU Odakyu 8000 series is still being operated on the Odakyu line (see the photo below). It’s happy for railfans like me, as we can ride and compare the Odakyu 8000 and the Seibu 8000 models. I hope the two kinds of 8000 series will be operated as long as possible.
