The 207 series (207系) is a DC electric multiple unit (EMU) commuter train type operated by West Japan Railway Company (JR-West) in the Kansai Region of Japan since 1991. This train bears no relation to the 207 series built by JNR and operated by JR East until 2009.

Background and history

The 207 series was developed for use on the Katafuku Line (now known as the JR Tozai Line), and also to be the standard commuter train type for JR-West. The type was introduced into service on 30 April 1991, replacing ageing 101 series and 103 series EMUs operating on the Fukuchiyama Line and the Katamachi Line. The trains were built jointly by Hitachi, JR-West (Goto Factory), Kinki Sharyo, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries.

Livery revision

With the introduction of the 321 series fleet from 2005, the 207 series fleet was re-liveried from its original two-tone blue scheme to a navy-and-orange color scheme, matching that of the 321 series.

Refurbishment

On 22 September 2014, JR-West announced that the 207 series fleet would undergo a program of refurbishment, aiming to improve the fleet's safety, efficiency, and accessibility. 0-subseries set Z22, the first set to be refurbished, returned to service on 17 November 2014. During the refurbishment program, the interior was fitted with wheelchair spaces, enlarged seat partitions, newly introduced intermediate seat partitions to make way for vertical grab bars, and LED lighting. External changes include the use of HID headlights, gangway door-mounted wipers, and end car-mounted safety fencing. In addition, the fleet was equipped with fault detection technology, and much of the existing electrical equipment was overhauled.

Withdrawal

On 6 April 2022, the 7-car prototype set (F1) was forwarded to Suita General Depot for scrapping.

Variants

Operations

Former operations

Formations

207-0 series

7-car prototype

The prototype set was formed as follows.

4-car sets

207-1000, 207-2000 series

4-car sets

3-car sets

Interior