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JR East E653 Series / JR東日本E653系

The E653 Series (E653系) is an EMU operated by JR East on Limited Express services.

Developed for Limited Express services on the Jōban Line, the E653 series is a AC/DC dual voltage capable express train entering service in 1997. Although the 651 series had been operating Super Hitachi since 1989, a number of JNR 485 series vehicles remained on runs with additional stops. It was decided that a new type would be designed to update Limited Express trains on the Jōban Line. The E653 series was the first train in Japan to adopt a double skin aluminium alloy body structure, which reduced weight and manufacturing costs. In consideration of future operations on the Hokuriku Main Line after the 485 series' retirement, the type also supports both 50Hz and 60Hz power supply frequencies. The interior was designed with the concept of functionality and non-wastefulness, and all cars are standard seats. 72 cars were produced from 1997-2005, with 7 car basic formations and 4 car attached formations. They operated as Fresh Hitachi until 2013, when Jōban Line Limited Express trains were unified to the newer E657 series. The E653 series sets were then transferred to the Niigata area, with the 7 car sets renumbered the 1000 series and the 4 car sets the 1100 series. Snow resistance and interior heating was strengthened in consideration of the harsher winters in the region, and the leading car of the 7-car sets were converted to a green car. Since then, the type has been operating as Inaho between Niigata and Sakata/Akita, and Shirayuki between Niigata and destinations on the Myōkō-Haneuma Line. 2 formations had been transferred back to the Jōban Line in 2018 and 2023, these were given unique liveries and run as special/event trains. As of current, all 72 cars are operational.

Basic Information:

Max Speed: 140km/h
Acceleration: 0.56m/s/s
Motor Output: 145kW x 4 per car

The following formations are included:

1100 Series (4 Car)

Configuration: 2M2T
Max Pax: 266
In Service: 2015-

1000 Series (7 Car)

Configuration: 4M3T
Max Pax: 428
In Service: 2013-

0 Series (7 Car)

Configuration: 4M3T
Max Pax: 466
In Service: 1997-2013
-can be coupled up to 2 sets

0 Series (7+4 Car)

Configuration: 6M5T
Max Pax: 662
In Service: 1997-2013