Enoden 300 series
Data (as of 12 Jan 2024)
| Status: | Endangered |
| Constructed in: | 1960 (the fifth unit) |
| 1927-36 (others) | |
| Rebuilt in: | 1956-68* |
| Number (re)built: | 12 |
| Registered: | 2 |
*Except the fifth unit.
History
The history of the 300 series is very complicated. All but one (the fifth unit) were rebuilt from older rolling stock. Six units in total had been used in 1968-91, and since each unit had different origins, none of them looked the same.
The fifth unit, which is still on mainline, was introduced in 1960. It was mostly made from the ground up, but underframes were reused from Series 1 of Gyokunan Electric Railway (now part of Keio), which was originally built in 1926. The fifth unit has been converted and refurbished many times, such as replacement of traction, motors and installing air-conditioning. It has been popular among tourists, local residents and railway enthusiasts as it is now the oldest and nostalgic unit on Enoden, and the regard it as the mascot of the area.
Current Operations & Future Prospects
The fifth unit is still operational, mostly with another unit to form four coaches. Despite being old, the 300 series can be seen frequently. The last overhaul was carried out in 2021, indicating that it can be in service until 2025, but possibly beyond that if Enoden decides to retain it.