Following my previous posts on Keio’s 2000 series, Seibu’s L00, Sotetsu’s 13000 series, and Enoden’s new 700 series EMUs, I’m happy to introduce another brand-new train that has joined the Tokyo metropolitan area fleet.
Please take a look at the photo above. Here it is—the Tobu Railway 90000 series EMU for the Tojo Line. The new train is scheduled to enter service this September, but I had the chance to see it before its official debut by joining an event hosted by the Japan Railfan Club. Today, I’d like to share that memorable experience with you.
What’s New About the 90000 Series?
First, the front end features a reverse-slant design that sweeps upward from the bottom. Doesn't it remind you of something? Yes—a ship! But why? The areas along the Tojo Line owe much of their early development to inland waterways before the railway was built, and the new design pays tribute to that history. I like the story behind it.
To me, this reverse-slant front is slightly reminiscent of the Chiba Urban Monorail 0-series. If so, I wondered whether the front coupler might be difficult to accommodate. On the Chiba monorail, the coupler is mounted above the body. On the Tobu 90000 series, however, it has to be installed below the body. With such a ship-like front, I was afraid the coupler might stick out like a tongue. Wouldn't that look a bit awkward?
I examined the front several times with that concern in mind, but it turned out to be unfounded. The coupler is neatly integrated into the skirt and the surrounding equipment, so it doesn't protrude very much. Tobu got it right!
Second, take a look at the interior in the photo below. You can see wavy lines on the seat partitions. If you look closely, you'll notice the same pattern on the floor. These waves also represent the rivers and streams along the Tojo Line. I like that thoughtful touch.
Finally, take another look at the top photo. The windows in the passenger doors have been lowered compared with those on existing trains. As a result, the interior feels much brighter, and children can enjoy the view outside more easily. I think that's a wonderful improvement.
I'm running out of space here, so I'll save the technical specifications of the 90000 series for a future post. Please look forward to it!
