JR East has announced the development of the new E10 series of trains for the Tohoku Shinkansen, aiming for commercial operations to begin in the fiscal year 2030. This new model is set to succeed the current E5 series, which has been in service since its introduction.
The E10 series train will maintain a maximum operating speed of 320 kilometers per hour, matching the capabilities of the existing E5 series. This ensures passengers will experience similar transit times even with the new enhancements. The train will also feature significant upgrades aimed at improving passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
Among the notable features is the introduction of the 'TRAIN DESK', which is aimed at business travelers and includes spacious seating configurations. The seating arrangement will support two rows on either side, with well-designed partitions between seats to provide added privacy. All seats will be equipped with power outlets, allowing passengers to stay connected and powered up during their travels.
The design of the E10 series takes inspiration from the natural landscapes of the Tohoku region, showcasing shades of green and incorporating elements such as cherry blossom motifs. The exterior will reflect the mountainous backdrop, with the upper section painted 'Tsugaru green' and the lower part 'Evening elm', enhancing the aesthetics and localized identity of the train.
JR East is also upgrading storage facilities onboard, increasing luggage capacity and including dedicated doors for efficient loading and unloading of items. Specifically, car number five will have specialized openings to facilitate this process, thereby enhancing versatility for services like 'hako buehn', which allows for hassle-free transfer of larger items.
For the safety of passengers, the E10 series will be fitted with advanced technologies derived from the ALFA-X test platform. These improvements include innovative L-shaped car guides to prevent derailment, and left-right dampers to absorb vibrations and stabilize the train during earthquakes. The braking system will see improvements as well, with the braking distance reduced by 15% compared to its predecessor, allowing for quicker stops when necessary.
Test runs for the E10 series will commence after its expected completion post-fall 2027, and the train is poised to enter commercial service by 2030. This marks the first new model introduced on the Tohoku Shinkansen line since 2011, reflecting the company's commitment to modernizing and enhancing regional transport.
JR East is not just focusing on the Tohoku line; there are plans to potentially develop corresponding models for the Hokkaido Shinkansen, utilizing the E10 series as the basis for these future endeavors.
With the new developments planned for the Tohoku Shinkansen, including enhanced safety measures, modern amenities, and comfortable seating arrangements, JR East aims to set new standards for train travel within Japan. The E10 series is expected to not only upgrade the existing transit experiences for passengers but also to stimulate regional growth by providing efficient and reliable transport options.