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JNR 115 Series / 国鉄115系

The 115 Series (115系) is suburban type EMU manufactured by JNR.

A mass produced vehicle deployed on lines with steep gradients, The 115 series was based on the 111 series, but equipped with a higher output motor. All sets were outfitted with snow resistance as most mountainous lines are located in colder regions. The first sets entered service in 1963, with production lasting until 1983, a total of 1925 cars were manufactured, and around 50 vehicles were converted from other types. The type was deployed across Honshu, and subsequently operated by JR East, JR West and JR Central after privatization. Unlike other JNR era commuter trains, the 115 series remained widely used on main lines used until the 2010s. While JR Central removed the type by 2008, it was operated by JR East in the Niigata area until 2022. Until 2004 the type was used by JR West on the Keihanshin area rapid service, these units had their maximum speed raised to 110km/h, they were later transferred to other areas and the speed upgrade was reverted. Presently 115 series trains are still commonly seen in the Okayama area of JR West, and vehicles transferred to third sector Shinano Railway in Nagano prefecture are also in active service. The number of active vehicles as of 2024 is estimated to be 240 cars. Shinano Railway had previously announced full withdrawal of the type by 2027, but later stated it would be changed due to COVID. JR West is gradually replacing it's units with the 227 series, but some sets are likely to remain for a while.

Basic Information:

Max Speed: 100km/h
Acceleration: 0.56m/s/s (1000 series), 0.44m/s/s (2000 series)
Motor Output: 120kW x 4 per car
Seating: semi-cross
In Service: 1963-

The following formations are included:

115-1000 Series (2 Car)

Configuration: all cars powered
Max Pax: 300

115-1000 Series (3 Car)

Configuration: 2M1T
Max Pax: 480
-can be coupled up to 2 sets

115-2000 Series (4 Car)

Configuration: 2M2T
Max Pax: 660
-can be coupled up to 2 sets