Hiroshima Electric Railway increases tram speeds to 50 km/h

Hiroshima Electric Railway has begun operating streetcars at a maximum speed of 50 km/h on a specific section of its Line 8, marking the first time in Japan that a tram running alongside motor vehicles has exceeded the standard 40 km/h limit.

The increased speed applies to the 770-meter section between Tokaichimachi and Betsuinmae, specifically for the 1000-series vehicles. The initiative follows test runs conducted without passengers between March and June 2026, which confirmed the safety of the higher speeds.

This project is part of a verification process by a study group involving the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, the National Police Agency, and various experts. The operation is conducted under a special permit for exceptions to track operation rules. By reducing the speed gap between trams and automobiles, the company aims to improve transit speed and decrease the likelihood of collisions. Hiroshima Electric Railway plans to expand this capability to Line 7 and other vehicles in the future.