EV-E801 series


The EV-E801 series is a two-car battery electric multiple unit train type operated by East Japan Railway Company on the Oga Line in Akita Prefecture in northern Japan since 4 March 2017.

Overview

The train is derived from the experimental 817 series BEMU train developed by JR Kyushu, and will incorporate modifications to cope with the colder climate of Akita Prefecture.
The two-car EV-E801 series train operates as an electric multiple unit under the 20 kV AC overhead wire of the Ou Main Line between and, a distance of, and on battery power over the non-electrified Oga Line tracks between Oiwake and, a distance of, replacing existing KiHa 40 diesel multiple unit trains. It can also be recharged via its pantograph at a 20 kV AC recharging facility specially built at Oga Station.
The EV-E800 car is equipped with lithium-ion storage batteries with a total capacity of 360 kWh, and operates at a maximum speed of under overhead wires and at on battery power over non-electrified tracks.

Formation

The two-car train is formed as shown below, with one driving motor and one driving trailer car.
DesignationMcTc'
NumberingEV-E801-1EV-E800-1
Weight 38.137.5
Passenger capacity 40/12940/127

The Mc car is fitted with one single-arm pantograph.

Interior

Internally, the train uses LED lighting throughout. Seating accommodation consists of longitudinal bench seating. Both cars have a toilet.

History

Initial details of the new train were formally announced by JR East on 20 November 2015. The train will undergo evaluation and proving trials on the Oga Line ahead of the scheduled introduction on revenue-earning services in March 2017.
The two-car trainset was delivered from the Hitachi factory in Kudamatsu, Yamaguchi to Akita Depot in December 2016.