Kintetsu introduced a new train series, the 8A, in October, which is now running on Kintetsu’s Nara, Kyoto, Kashihara and Tenri lines. Built to replace aging rolling stock, the 8A series is Kintetsu’s first new commuter train in 24 years.
Kintetsu’s new 8A series commuter train
The 8A is an electric train and is also environmentally friendly as it reduces power consumption by 45% compared to Kintetsu’s older trains. The 8A train’s exterior has a two-tone red and white color scheme, which will be familiar to regular passengers, but the unique octagonal design at the front of the train marks it out as something new.
Kintetsu 8A train’s interior
Inside the train has seats that can be positioned either across the interior or horizontally along the sides of the car, depending on how busy the train is. Each car has spaces for large luggage such as suitcases and strollers, and these spaces have stoppers that can be used to lock the wheels of the luggage in place and stop it from rolling around. There are also wheelchair spaces at the end of each car.
A design image showing how to use the new luggage spaces
Large LCD displays showing information in several languages are installed above the doors and there are switches that passengers can use to open and close the doors. LED lighting is used throughout the cars. Each train car also has four security cameras to ensure passenger safety.
Kintetsu plans to introduce 12 four-car 8A trains this year and they will gradually replace older commuter trains built in the 1960s and 70s.
Article by Michael Lambe. Images courtesy of Kintetsu Railway. All rights reserved.
