Japan railway operators advance rolling stock modernization

Japanese railway operators are advancing rolling stock modernization and fleet restructuring.

Toei Subway has begun the delivery of the 12-600 series 12-971F train set. After departing the Nippon Sharyo Toyokawa Plant on September 11, the unit arrived at Honmoku Pier on September 12 via specialized transport. The set is expected to be moved to the Kiba Vehicle Depot as part of the ongoing introduction of new rolling stock for the Oedo Line.

Keikyu Corporation is also planning a significant fleet update for 2026. The company intends to manufacture 24 new cars for the 1000 series, consisting of four 4-car sets and four 2-car sets. This move toward modular, flexible configurations—such as combining 4-car and 2-car sets to create 6-car operations—is expected to impact the existing 1500 series fleet. The introduction of these flexible sets may lead to the further phase-out of the 1500 series' fixed 6-car formations in favor of more adaptable operational models.