What is HC85 Series?
JR Tokai operates the Hida Limited Express on the Takayama Main Line and the Nanki Limited Express on the Kisei Main Line using Series 85 limited express diesel railcars. However, with the exception of a few, this series was manufactured between 1988 and 1992, and the cars are already over 30 years old.
The successor to the HC85 Series was developed, and the “HC” stands for “Hybrid Car” and is derived from the hybrid drive system described below. Compared to the Series 85 diesel trains, the new HC85 has 35% better fuel economy, 30% lower CO2 emissions, and 40% lower NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions.
First, let’s take a look at the exterior and interior of the car.
In addition to the running gear, the car has been upgraded in terms of customer service facilities, such as AC outlets and barrier-free access. These interior facilities include many “firsts for JR Tokai’s conventional limited express trains,” probably because JR Tokai has not manufactured new limited express trains for conventional lines for some time.
Actually riding the train
The test train first went from Nagoya down the Tokaido Main Line to Gifu, where it changed direction and took the Takayama Line to Takayama (this test ride was operated using the extra train “Hida No. 81”).
Since fast rapid trains and limited express trains run frequently between Nagoya and Gifu, the train’s running performance must be as good as those trains. There are already several types of hybrid-driven diesel trains in Japan, but the HC85 Series is the first hybrid-driven diesel train that can run at a maximum speed of 120 km/h.
In order for the HIDA to keep pace with trains on the Tokaido Main Line, it must be able to run at speeds up to 120 km/h. The HC85 Series is the first diesel train with this capability. However, there were difficulties in developing a system capable of 120 km/h.
The HC85 Series has a hybrid drive system that can accelerate and decelerate. In the hybrid drive system, the main electric motor built into the bogie is directly responsible for acceleration and deceleration, so it sounds just like a train.
However, it is the diesel engine that supplies power to it, so it also makes the sound of an engine. The engine stops when the train is stopped, but is always running when the train is running.
If you are interested, it would be interesting to pay attention to such “sound differences. The seat is firm and comfortable, similar to that of the N700S, and provides firm support for the body.
Although there seems to be a misunderstanding, excessive fluffiness can lead to unsteadiness and back pain.
The Green Car is equipped with a semi-active vibration control system, which enhances the ability to cancel out rolling motion. In addition to the train and next station announcements, sightseeing information is also broadcast, which is typical of sightseeing routes.
During the test ride, a tourist information broadcast, made possible with the cooperation of the local Gifu High School English Club, was played. Since the broadcast was made in both Japanese and English, it must have been the English Research Club that made the decision to use this service.
© Source travel watch