By RYUZO NAKANO/ Staff Writer
September 22, 2023 at 07:00 JST
An artist’s rendition of the new 385 series express train (Provided by Central Japan Railway Co.)
NAGOYA--Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai) announced it will introduce “next-generation” tilting control technology for its Shinano express trains on the Chuo Line connecting Nagoya and Nagano stations from around fiscal 2029.
It will mark the first upgrade in about 30 years, the operator said.
The current 383 series is equipped with a tilting mechanism, which enables trains to tilt on curves. This reduces the centrifugal force, allowing trains to take curves faster while maintaining passenger comfort.
Its successor, the 385 series, will feature gyro sensors that detect changes in motion to control tilting movements with more precision to improve ride comfort.
In-train security cameras will also be introduced to enhance security, JR Tokai said.
The design theme for the exterior of the train is “the refreshing breeze sweeping through the Japan Alps.”
An eight-car train will be completed in fiscal 2026 and trial tests will be conducted for about a year.
Mass-produced cars will be introduced in or around fiscal 2029, the company said.
“We want to increase ridership and provide even more comfortable services by introducing a train appropriate for the times,” company president Shunsuke Niwa told a news conference on July 20.
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