Seibu 10000 series New Red Arrow

Data (as of 2 Dec 2023)

History

The 10000 series was built using traction, bogies and braking systems of 5000 series Red Arrow (1969-95). The 10000 series was introduced when Seibu commenced the first Limited Express service on Seibu Shinjuku Line, Koedo (Seibu-Shinjuku - Hon-Kawagoe). More trains were delivered to Ikebukuro Line as well, replacing the 5000 series. In 2003, one more unit with completely new equipment, such as inverters for traction and regenerative braking system, was introduced.

The 10000 series trains are formed of seven coaches and have been used on Koedo since 1993. They had also been used for Limited Express Chichibu (Ikebukuro - Seibu-Chichibu) and Musashi (Ikebukuro - Hannnō) before being superseded by 001 series Laview in 2020.

Toyama Chiho Railway purchased a unit and rearranged them to three coaches. The company renamed it as 20020 series and it entered into service in 2022. It has not changed much except for the number of coaches.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

As mentioned above, the 10000 series trains remain on Koedo services. However, the number of passenger has been declining even before the COVID-19 pandemic so that it is uncertain whether Seibu will introduce the 001 series to Seibu Shinjuku Line. The 10000 series could retire in the near future with no successor.

Toyama Chiho Railway uses it mainly for limited express services.

Photos

A unit became "Red Arrow Classic" in 2011, modelled after the 5000 series Red Arrow. Retired in 2021.