Iyotetsu 50 series

Data (as of 12 Oct 2024)

*Including four trams converted from other series as described below.
**Excluding those stored at depot and awaiting disposal.

History

The 50 series can be classified into three groups: those introduced in 1951-57 (nos. 51-61), those introduced in 1960-65 (nos. 62-78) and those transferred from other cities (nos. 1001-1003 and 81). In this article, they are called first, second and third groups, respectively.

Trams of the first group were built with technology and design before the Second World War so that they looked old even in their early days. They are based on then-new trains of Kyoto City Tram in the early-1950s. Most of them were refurbished later with relatively new traction, air-conditioning, new (and less attractive) livery and even LED displays showing destination.

Those of the second group are different from the first group, not least the exterior design. To reduce costs and make trams lighter, the company ordered the trams with less heavy bodies. Many trams of this group were also refurbished with air-conditioner, but light bodies were less sturdy than those of the first group. Despite being younger than the first group, many carriages were withdrawn earlier than the first group trams.

The third group consisted of three trams transferred from Kure City Tram (1000 series) in Hiroshima Prefecture and one from Nankai Wakayama Tram (321 series). Iyotetsu purchased them just before Kure City Tram was permanently closed in 1967 and Wakayama Tram was closed in 1971. Iyotetsu numbered them 1001-1003 and 81, respectively. Nos. 1001-1003 (ex-Kure City Tram) were withdrawn in 2001-04, while no. 81 (ex-Wakayama Tram) was withdrawn in 1987.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The number of the 50 series has been sharply declining in these days following introduction of 5000 series, and not all registered trams are operational. However, it would still take years to be completely withdrawn.

Photos

The very first 50 series (no. 51) in simple orange livery.

The second group of the 50 series (the original livery).

The second group of the 50 series (the simple orange).