Nankai 50000 series
The Nankai 50000 series is a limited express electric multiple unit train type operated in Japan by the private railway operator Nankai Electric Railway. These 6-car trains were introduced in 1994 on the new Rapi:t limited express service on the Nankai Airport Line serving Kansai International Airport, which opened on 4 September 1994.
Operations
The 50000 series is used on the Airport Line Rapi:t limited express services. The trains run between Namba and Chiyoda Depot, and have also been used occasionally on special-event services to Wakayamashi and Misakikoen. Between 2022 and 2023, the type was also used on Semboku Liner limited express services on the Semboku Rapid Railway Line.Design
The external styling of the train was the work of Hiroyuki Wakabayashi, an architect who was also responsible for designing Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line. The design theme was "Outdated Future", and is the reason for the train's futuristic and retro styling. The end cars feature streamlined cabs without any gangway connections. The cars sport an all-over metallic deep navy blue livery, with the side windows having an elliptical shape, giving the train an aircraft-like appearance.Formation
As of 1 April 2013, the fleet consists of six 6-car sets with three motored cars and three non-powered trailer cars formed as shown below, with car 1 at the Wakayama end.| Car No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| Designation | Tc2 | M3 | T1 | M2 | M1 | Tc1 |
| Numbering | 50700 | 50200 | 50600 | 50100 | 50000 | 50500 |
- Cars 2 and 5 are each fitted with two cross-arm type pantographs.
- Cars 5 and 6 have "Super Seat" accommodation.
- Cars 3 and 5 have toilets.