[Model/Name] Shinkansen 500-Series
Designed to be an exceptionally comfortable, high-speed transportation system, the 500-Series Nozomi made its debut in March 1997, linking Shin-Osaka and Hakata in just 2 hours and 17 minutes. In November of the same year, it rode into Tokyo as "Shinkansen 500-series",
connected Tokyo and Hakata in the short 4hours and 49minutes.
The 500-Series uses entirely new methods to deal with environmental problems, such as the "long nose shape" based on the beak of the kingfisher bird, which reduces train noise and vibration. The unique wing-shaped current collector, consisting of an oval shaped support with protrusions based on the aerodynamic wings of the owl and the wing-shaped current collector, a semi active suspension system, and many other technological innovations help the 500-Series achieve high speeds while maintaining a quiet, comfortable riding environment. In 1998, the 500-Series received the Blue Ribbon Award and the Brunel Award.
Years Manufactured |
1996 to 1998 |
Max. Operating Speed (km/h) |
300 (Maximum Design Speed: 320 Km/h) |
Service for |
500-Series Nozomi |
| |
|
For Standard Configuration (16 Cars) |
Capacity |
Standard Cars: 1,124; Green Cars: 200; Total: 1,324 |
|
Weight (tons) |
approx.40 |
Dimensions |
Max. Length
(mm) |
25,700 (Lead Car) |
25,000 (Other Cars) |
| |
Max. Width
(mm) |
3,380 |
| |
Roof Height
(mm) |
3,690 |
Body Construction |
Welded Aluminum Alloy
(Waxed Honeycomb + Extruded Aluminum) |
Bogie |
High-speed Bolsterless Bogie
(with Active Suspension [Vibration Control]) |
Brake System |
AC Regenerative Brakes Used with
Electric Command Control Type Air Brake System
(with Variable Load Unit) |
Primary Electric Motor and
No. Motors |
Induction Motor Drive with VVVF Control |
Pantograph |
Wing-Shaped Current Collector |
