The 8000 series (8000系) is a tilting limited express electric multiple unit (EMU) train operated by Shikoku Railway Company (JR Shikoku) in Shikoku, Japan, since 1992.

Operations

Formations

As of 1 October 2013, 48 vehicles were in service, formed as 3- and 5-car sets, as shown below.

3-car sets

Prototype set S1

Cars 6 and 8 are each fitted with one S-PS59 lozenge-type pantograph. The pantograph on car 8 was removed in 2010. This set were retired from service by March 2018.

Sets S2–S6

Cars 6 and 8 are each fitted with one S-PS59 lozenge-type pantograph. The pantograph on car 8 was removed between 2010 and 2011. Car 7 is removed from formations during off-peak seasons between 2011 and 2018.

5-car sets L1–L6

History

The prototype set, S1, was delivered in May 1992, and entered revenue service on 19 September 1992. On 8 August 1992, set 8001 achieved a speed of 160 km/h in a special test run. The subsequent fleet of full-production sets entered service from 18 March 1993. The entire fleet underwent life-extension refurbishment between 2004 and 2006. Beginning in 2023, the fleet underwent another programme of refurbishment. The sets will receive a new livery based on that of the newer 8600 series, as well as wheelchair spaces, power outlets, reupholstered seats, updated traction equipment, and Western-style toilets. In addition, smoking compartments were removed. Treated "S" sets entered revenue service from 23 December 2023, and treated "L" sets entered service from 2 August 2024. The entire fleet is planned to be refurbished by 2027 at a pace of two to three sets per year.

Livery variations