Kotoden 1070 series

Data (as of 7 Jun 2025)

History

The 1070 series was converted from Keikyu 600 series, which was introduced to Limited Express services on Keikyu Main and Kurihama Lines in 1956. It was initially called Keikyu 700 series, but renumbered to 600 series in 1966, making them extremely confusing. The Keikyu 600 series was initially formed of two coaches, but later rearranged to four coaches, refurbished with air-conditioners and used until 1986.

Kotoden purchased six intermediate carriages and refurbished again, and reintroduced them in 1984. Kotoden renamed them 1070 series, and they were the first trains on the network with air-conditioning. However, the 1070 series trains have only two sets of doors per carriage so that the company feels it inconvenient especially during rush hours.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 1070 series has been used on Kotohira Line during rush hours. The first unit (1071-1072) is usually in use while the second unit (1073-1074) is designated as a spare unit and does not run often.

Kotoden plans to introduce brand new trains in 2026. Since the 1070 series is the oldest rolling stock, both units are likely to be withdrawn by then or even before that.

Photo

A statically-displayed 600 series of Keikyu.