Tobu 200 and 250 series

Data (as of 6 Jul 2024)

*Excluding six carriages of the 250 series, which were built in 1998.

History

The 200 series has been used on Limited Express Ryomo (Asakusa - Akagi). Tobu introduced nine six-carriage units using traction, bogies, motors and braking systems of 1700 and 1720 series Deluxe Romance Car, which were first introduced in 1956. The 200 series replaced 1800 series and Tobu successfully achieved raising maximum speed (and fares). Another unit was introduced in 1998, but it was made from the ground up (250 series).

Unlike 100 series SPACIA, the 200 series was not designed for tourists so that accommodation is rather simple, though still not uncomfortable.

Tobu replaced some Ryomo services with three-car 500 series Revaty trains as the demand declined amid COVID-19 pandemic. However, passengers came back to trains as businesses reopened and businesspeople complained about crowded trains. Hence, Tobu decided to reinstate the 200 series in 2023.

Current Operations & Future Prospects

The 200 series is only used on Ryomo (Asakusa - Akagi) services, but gradually replaced with 500 series Revaty as the traction and other equipment of the 200 series are very old. The 250 series was withdrawn in 2022, and other 200 series trainsets are also likely to retire by the late-2020s.

Photos

A unit was repainted like Puyuma Express in 2016, as Tobu concluded a friendship agreement with Taiwan Railways Administration.

In 2021, two units were repainted red with white bands like 1800 series.