Hanshin 5500 series


The Hanshin 5500 series is a commuter electric multiple unit train type operated by the private railway operator Hanshin Electric Railway in Japan since 1995.

Design

Manufactured to replace any previous train cars damaged by the January 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake, the design of the 5500 series is based on the earlier 8000 series trains. The 5500 series was the first variable-frequency drive-equipped train type to be introduced by the Hanshin Electric Railway.

Operations

Together with the 5550 series trains, the 5500 series sets are used primarily on Hanshin Main Line services.

Formation

, nine four-car sets are in service, formed as shown below. All cars are powered.
DesignationMc1M1M2Mc2
Numbering55xx 56xx 56xx 55xx
Capacity 132/48132/50132/50132/48

The two intermediate cars are each fitted with one lozenge-type pantograph.

Interior

Passenger accommodation consists of longitudinal bench seating throughout, with sculpted seats finished in blue moquette.

History

The first trains entered service in 1995. Nine four-car sets were built by 2000.

Refurbishment

The fleet underwent a programme of refurbishment from 2017, with the first set, 5501, treated in April 2017. Refurbishment includes the addition of external passenger door control buttons, full-colour LED destination display panels, and a new blue livery.

Mukogawa line

5511-5911F Toraco

5512-5912F To-lucky

5513-5913F Tigers

5514-5914F Koshien Stadium