November
2000 was a time for changeover on Toyotetsu’s Atsumi Line between
Toyohashi and Tahara. Typically using second-hand EMUs, the relatively
briefly used ex-Meitetsu 7300s (right) were being replaced by ex-Tokyu
sets (left). The latter are its type 1800, and were formerly
Tokyu’s 7200. They are seen at its Takashi Depot.
By Anthony Robins.
The
ex-Meitetsu 7300 were ‘Panorama’ type sets with large windows which
reused older electrical equipment. Built by locally based Nippon Sharyo
and introduced in 1997, 28 cars were moved to the Atsumi Line in 1997
when its voltage was increased from 600 volts to 1500 volts. However,
their two doors’ per side and facing seat arrangement meant that they
were not ideal for rush-hour use.
By Anthony Robins.