New Generation of Trains in Japan

JR Central plans to develop a new generation of trains with the highest curving speed in Japan, as reported by the railway portal Railway Supply.

The passenger carrier has announced the commencement of work on the Series 385 trains. These trains are intended to replace the fleet of 76 Series 383 trains with tilting bodies, which have been operating on the Nagano-Nagoya line with a gauge of 1067 mm since the mid-1990s.

Automated metro line with unmanned trains from Hitachi Rail.

The maximum operational speed of these trains is 130 km/h, and similar specifications will be found in the Series 385 trains.

The first eight-car prototype is expected to be ready by 2026, with serial production planned to begin in 2029.

The Series 385 trains will utilize a new pendulum system for tilting the train bodies while navigating curves. This system will be installed on bogies, which will detect the train’s position and adjust the body’s tilt according to route data and track characteristics. This will be achieved through a gyroscope sensor integrated into the system.

The first trains equipped with such a system are planned to be launched in Japan as early as next year.

Images: JR Central.

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