JR Central will develop new hybrid-type trains, the “HC35 Series,” and will introduce it on the “Mie” rapid service, which runs directly on the Kansai Main Line, Ise Railway Line, Kisei Main Line, and Sangu Line, as well as on local trains on the Takayama Main Line and Taita Line.
To replace the 30-year-old Kiha 75 Series
These trains are positioned as replacements for the Kiha 75 Series diesel railcars, which are due for replacement after approximately 30 years of manufacture. This marks the company’s first introduction of hybrid trains on conventional line local trains. Like the “HC85 Series,” which debuted in July 2022 for the “Hida” and “Nanki” limited express trains, the hybrid system combines electricity generated by the engine with electricity stored in a storage battery to power the motor. A key feature of the new train is its reduced environmental impact, achieving approximately 35% better fuel efficiency than the Kiha 75 Series, reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 30% and NOx emissions by approximately 40%.
The hybrid design eliminates the need for propeller shafts, a rotating component unique to diesel railcars, improving safety, and the elimination of gear changes improves ride comfort. Reliability is enhanced by utilizing proven technologies, such as a condition monitoring system that constantly monitors the vehicle’s equipment’s operating status and malfunctions remotely, and a bogie structure with fewer critical welds. Security cameras and wheelchair-accessible restrooms are installed inside the cars, and the enhanced air conditioning system features AI that automatically adjusts the temperature based on occupancy levels.
Adding a “Speed” Element to the Design
The exterior design is based on the familiar shape and color scheme of the 315 series commuter train, while the diagonally rising orange stripe conveys the speed of the “Mie” rapid service. Nineteen two-car trains will be manufactured between fiscal 2028 and fiscal 2029. Plans call for operation of these trains primarily as “Mie” rapid service trains between Nagoya and Toba, and as local trains between Gifu and Gero and Minoota and Tajimi.
All Kiha 75 cars have fixed convertible cross seats at the ends, but the HC35 will have seating arrangements tailored to the line and train characteristics. Cars used on rapid “Mie” trains will have one car with all convertible cross seats and one with long seats, creating a difference in service between reserved and unreserved seating. On the other hand, both cars on the Takayama Main Line and Taita Line will have long seats, and following the 315 series, newly built local cars will follow the policy of mainly using long seats.
