311 series


The 311 series was a DC suburban electric multiple unit train type operated by Central Japan Railway Company in Japan from 1989 until 2025. A total of 15 four-car sets were built between 1989 and 1991 by Hitachi, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Kinki Sharyo to replace older 113 and 115 series EMUs. The design of the 311 series was developed from that of the 211 series.
Following the introduction of new 315 series EMUs, JR Central began retiring the 311 series fleet in May 2022, with the entire fleet retired by 30 June 2025.

Design

Built jointly by Hitachi, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Kinki Sharyo, the design was developed from the earlier 211 series, with the first five trains introduced from July 1989 to replace older 113 and 115 series EMUs. Eight more sets were introduced from the start of the new timetable in March 1990, and a further two sets were introduced in March 1991.

Formation

, the fleet consists of 15 four-car sets, all based at Ogaki Depot. The trainsets are formed as shown below with two motored cars and two non-powered trailer cars.
DesignationMcM'TTc'
NumberingKuMoHa 311MoHa 311SaHa 311KuHa 310

The KuMoHa 311 car is fitted with a single-arm pantograph. Between June 2006 and July 2008, all sets had their original lozenge pantographs replaced with single-arm pantographs.

Interior

Withdrawal

Withdrawals of the 311 series fleet commenced on 18 May 2022, starting with sets G8 and G12. On 12 May 2025, JR Central announced that the last remaining sets are expected to be withdrawn from service by the end of June and a special tour involving sets G1 and G11 being sent for scrap is scheduled to take place on 12 July of that year.
The 311 series were retired from revenue service on 30 June 2025.