JR Shikoku 7200 series (JNR 121 series)

Data (as of 12 Jan 2024)

History

The 7200 series is a type of suburban train introduced by Japanese National Railways. Before refurbishment, the 7200 series was called 121 series. The 121 series was the first electric train in the island of Shikoku. JNR introduced 19 two-carriage units to Tamakatsu area just before the privatisation, as it was certain that the successor (JR Shikoku) would suffer from lack of funding.

The body design of the 121 series was based on that of 205 series, and the front end was very similar to that of 207 series (JNR). To reduce the cost of introduction, JNR reused bogies and traction of trains that were scrapped (such as 101 series and 485 series). In 2011, two units were converted to be compatible with driver-only operation.

In 2016-19, JR Shikoku carried out a major refurbishment programme of all 121 series units. Bogies, traction, motors and braking systems were replaced with new ones, converted to be compatible with driver-only operation (except two units which had already been converted). One of the most distinctive feature is the bogie, which is made of carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics. Refurbished units are called 7200 series.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 7200 series trains are used for stopping and rapid services on Dosan Line (Tadotsu - Kotohira) and Yosan Line (Takamatsu - Iyo-Saijo). Some services consist of three or four coaches with 7000 series.

Photos

Before the refurbishment, most 121 series units had blue bands.

The original livery (they had pink bands when JNR introduced them).