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JR Central HC85 Series / JR東海HC85系

The HC85 Series (HC85系) is a hybrid DMU of JR Central operating Limited Express services.

The first limited express type to use hybrid train technology, the HC85 series entered service in 2022 on the Takayama Main Line. Limited Express Hida had been operated by the KiHa 85 series for around 30 years, the service connects Nagoya with popular tourist destinations in the mountainous interior of Gifu Prefecture, with some services continuing to Toyama in the Hokuriku region. To reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact, it was decided the next generation of vehicles for the service would use a hybrid system similar to other JR companies. The "HC" designation stands for "Hybrid Car" and the 85 series number was maintained. While previous hybrid trains in Japan have been limited to 100km/h, the HC85 series would be compactible with a top speed of 120km/h. The interior was decorated with warm colors and the seats have a orange moquette reminiscent of autumn foliage. Information displays at the end of each car displays the status of the hybrid equipment in addition to stop information, and a 'Nano Museum' was installed on train to display traditional crafts from along the route. A total of 68 cars were produced in sets of 2 and 4 cars, and all Hida services have been operated by this type since March 2023. HC85 series formations would also replace the KiHa 85 series on Nanki services on the Kisei Main Line, which began operations in 2023. Hida can be up to 10 cars in a 4+4+2 consist, while Nanki is either 2 or 4 cars depending on demand.

Basic Information:

Max Speed: 120km/h
Acceleration: 0.58m/s/s
Motor Output: 145kW x 2 per car
In Service: 2022-

The following formations are included:

HC85 Series (2 Car)

Configuration: all cars powered
Max Pax: 96

HC85 Series (4 Car)

Configuration: all cars powered
Max Pax: 210

-can be operated as 4+2, 4+4, 4+4+2, and 4+4+4 consists