[Limited express “Nanki” debuts on July 1, 2023] I took a test drive in the new limited express vehicle “HC85 series”! Great ticket information too!
掲載日：2023.06.01
On July 1, 2022, it was used on the limited express "Hida" between Nagoya Station and Takayama Station, and was awarded the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's "Japan Railway Award" in September, and the Railway Friends Association's "Blue Ribbon Award" in May 2023. The award-winning new HC85 series will begin operating on all Nanki limited express trains between Nagoya Station and Shingu/Kii-Katsuura Station from July 1st.
On June 1st, one month before the start of operation, I participated in a test ride on the main line from Nagoya Station to Tsu Station! In this topic, we will tell you about the ride comfort and appeal of the HC85 series hybrid vehicle. In addition, we also have information on recommended spots to visit on the limited express "Nanki" and great deals on tickets!
What is the new hybrid vehicle “HC85 series”?
Detailed performance information about the new HC85 series limited express vehicle can be found on the HC85 series' official website "Hello! New NANKI."
Click here for the official website External link “Hello! New NANKI”
As a hybrid system vehicle that combines a power generator and a storage battery, it has achieved Japan's fastest speed of 120km/h. In addition to this, various performance improvements have been made to make the train more friendly to people and the environment. The following columns will introduce some of them.
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Origin of “HC85 series”
"HC" stands for "Hybrid Car".
Since its introduction in 1989, the conventional ``85 series diesel railcar'' has been used by many customers for over 30 years, and has been changed to the ``HC85 series'' with the meaning of aiming for the technologically innovative hybrid system 85 series. It was named.
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Reducing environmental impact
Each car has one engine, which is half the number of conventional 85 series diesel cars. This has resulted in an approximately 30% reduction in CO2 emissions and approximately 35% improvement in fuel efficiency.
The display inside the car shows the operating status of the engine and battery. You can experience the hybrid system in real time.
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Improved quietness and ride comfort
In addition to cutting the engine in half, we have also installed a variety of new soundproof and vibration-proof structures, resulting in significantly improved quietness and ride comfort.
The journey from Nagoya Station to KumanoCity Station takes over 3 hours, so comfort inside the train is very important!
I rode the HC85 series!
I was specially invited by JR Tokai to participate in the main line test drive of the HC85 series!
The ride quality was excellent, there was little engine noise typical of diesel cars, and it was very comfortable.
I'll show you what's inside the car.
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About seats
The bright colors of the seats are inspired by the autumn leaves and fireworks along the railway line. All seats are equipped with electrical outlets and free Wi-Fi is available, so you can spend your time comfortably.
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nano museum
On the deck inside the train, there is a ``Nano Museum'' displaying traditional crafts from areas along the line. There are different crafts on display for each train, such as Ise Katagami, so be sure to check them out!
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Complete in-car facilities
We hope that more customers will be able to use the space, including a luggage space that can accommodate a large carrying case, a toilet with a heated toilet seat with a hot water washing function, a multipurpose room that can be used for breastfeeding, resting, etc., a wheelchair space, and a multifunctional toilet. It is fully equipped with barrier-free and universal design features.
Riding the HC85 series to Nanki!
As its name suggests, the limited express "Nanki" is convenient for accessing the "Nanki" area, which straddles Mie and Wakayama prefectures. This area is home to the Kumano Kodo, a world heritage site, and is a popular spot for tourists from Japan and abroad.
There are many spectacular views such as TsuZurato-togePass, which has long been known as the gateway to the sacred land of Kumano, Shichirimihama, the longest gravel beach in Japan, and MaruyamaSenmaida, which has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 rice terraces.
The Mie Tourism Mie special site ``Kumano Kodo Tourist Guide'' provides detailed information on the Kumano Kodo, including basic knowledge about it, as well as recommended spots and gourmet information in the area. Please check this out as well♪
Go to Nanki! Information on advantageous tickets
Why not take the limited express "Nanki" and tour the Kumano Kodo, a world heritage site? The ``Nanki/Kumano Kodo Free Ticket'', which includes a round-trip ticket for the limited express ``Nanki'' and a free pass for designated sections, is now on sale. You can freely explore Kumano Kodo Iseji. Please see the official website for details.