Keio Corporation has announced that it will introduce a new #2000 series commuter train in early 2026. The new train will run on the Keio Line that connects Shinjuku in Tokyo with the western suburb of Hachioji.
A design image of the Keio #2000 series train
The company plans to introduce a total of four 10-car trains by March 2027, with one 10-car train set to make its commercial debut in early 2026.
The new train was partly designed using AI technology, and its rounded exterior with a repeated circular motif is meant to project a warm and friendly image that will give passengers a sense of security.
Design images of the new Keio #2000 Series Train
Each car will be equipped with two air purifiers and four in-car security cameras. Each car will also have a wheelchair space.
This train will also be more energy efficient thanks to VVVF inverter control devices that can improve energy efficiency by 20% compared to Keio’s #7000 series trains.
Keio #2000 series train interior
Car number 5 will have a large free space with no seats. This free space, a first for Keio Corporation, is aimed at passengers with wheelchairs or strollers. This car will also have large windows to help keep small children entertained, and so the space is nicknamed “Hidamari Space,” or “Sunny Space” in Japanese. Having this free space in car number 5, also means that it will be close to the elevator when the train stops at a station, making it even more convenient for wheelchair users and passengers with strollers.
Hidamari Space on Keio #2000 series train
Keio Corporation plans to have the new #2000 series enter service on January 31, 2026.
Article by Michael Lambe. Photos courtesy of Keio Corporation. All rights reserved.
