E257 series
E257 series
Main page
1633684

E257 series

logo
Community Hub0 subscribers
What are your thoughts?
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
E257 series

The E257 series (E257系, E257-kei) is a DC electric multiple unit (EMU) train type operated in Japan for limited express services by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and built jointly by Hitachi, Kinki Sharyo, and Tokyu Car Corporation.

Four variants exist: the original E257-0 series for use on Chūō Main Line Azusa and Kaiji limited-express services until 16 March 2019 (displaced by E353 series EMUs), the E257-500 series for use on Chiba area limited express services (Uchibo Line Sazanami, Sotobo Line Wakashio, Sōbu Main Line Shiosai, and Narita and Kashima Lines Ayame), the E257-2000/-2500 used for Odoriko services modified from former E257-0 and -500 series trains, and the E257-5000/5500 from former E257-0 and -500 trains for use on additional and charter services.[citation needed]

This sub-series was introduced on 1 December 2001 to replace the aging 183 and 189 series rolling stock on Chuo Main Line Azusa and Kaiji services. Based at Matsumoto depot, the fleet consisted of sixteen 9-car sets (M101 to M116) with a full cab at the Matsumoto end and a gangwayed cab at the Tokyo end, and five 2-car "add-on" sets (M201 to M205) with a full cab at the Tokyo end and a shunting cab at the Matsumoto end.

The type was the recipient of the 45th Blue Ribbon Award (2002) of the Japan Railfan Club.

From 2018, the E257 series trains were replaced by E353 series EMUs on Chuo Main Line Azusa and Kaiji limited express services. From the start of the revised timetable on 16 March 2019, E257 series trains were no longer used on regular Chuo Main Line limited express services. The trains were modified into E257-2000 series trainsets and redeployed on Tokaido Main Line Odoriko services from 14 March 2020. Several sets are still under refurbishment and three sets, which were reserved for use on charter and extra services, were modified into E257-5000s. As a result of these conversions, the five 2-car "add-on" sets were deemed surplus and therefore scrapped.

Matsumoto-based E257 series trains were also used on the Ohayo Liner Shinjuku and Home Liner Odawara commuter services running on the Tokaido Main Line until 14 March 2008.

The nine-car sets (M101 to M116) were formed as follows.

The two-car sets (M201 to M205) were formed as follows.

See all
User Avatar
No comments yet.