Tobu 80000 series
The Tobu 80000 series is a commuter electric multiple unit train type operated by the private railway operator Tobu Railway in Japan. Twenty-five 5-car sets are to be built.
Overview
The 80000 series is slated to replace ageing [Tobu Tobu 8000 series|8000 series|8000] and 10000 series EMUs, which were relegated from services on busier lines. The 25 sets will be built by Kinki Sharyo. Seven sets will be entirely new-build, and the remainder will be built as 4-car sets, each receiving a modified 60000 series intermediate car to form a 5-car set.Design
The 80000 series uses the same body construction as that of the 60000 series, although the type incorporates a curved front-end design. The trains carry a "future blue" and "bright green" livery.Internally, the trains feature longitudinal seating throughout. A space is provided at the end of car 4. Sets of 17.5-inch information displays are staggered above the doorways.
Technical details
The trains use a SynTRACS variable-frequency traction system incorporating synchronous reluctance motors, a first for major private railways in Japan. Unlike permanent-magnet synchronous motors, SynRMs do not use rare-earth magnets and allow for simpler circuitry.To reduce power losses, the power produced by the trains' regenerative braking system is not returned to the overhead lines but is instead used to charge the trains' onboard battery system.
Tobu Railway states that the new traction system, alongside more efficient power supplies and a battery backup system, allow the 80000 series to offer at least 40% energy savings over the earlier 8000 series.
Formations
The sets are formed of two motored cars and three trailer cars, as follows:History
Details of the 80000 series trains on order were first announced in April 2024. In light of declining ridership on the Tobu Urban Park Line following the COVID-19 pandemic, Tobu Railway decided to reduce train capacity instead of reducing frequency.The first two sets were delivered from the Kinki Sharyo plant in December 2024. These sets are entirely new-build. By February 2025, three completely new-build sets had been delivered.
The 80000 series first entered service on the Urban Park Line on 8 March 2025. Initially intended to operate alongside older 6-car sets, Tobu Railway plans to complete the Urban Park Line's transition to 5-car sets by March 2029.