A Detailed Look at the 2000 Series Trains: The 2000 Series trains are based on the “sustaina S13,” an all-stainless-steel train manufactured by Komatsu Rolling Stock Works, and incorporate numerous features not found in the used trains previously operated by Koden. These include a VVVF inverter control unit and auxiliary power supply unit utilizing SiC devices; bogies equipped with air springs; a driver’s cab featuring a single-lever master controller; a single-arm pantograph; close-coupling couplers with electrical connectors; and large LED destination displays—all of which are being installed for the first time on Kōchi Electric Railway’s rolling stock. The introduction of this state-of-the-art equipment has achieved significant energy savings—reducing power consumption by approximately 70 percent compared to conventional trains—while also enhancing operability, safety, and maintainability. Additionally, sway and vibration during operation have been reduced, improving ride comfort. In addition, the bogies are equipped with weight sensors that automatically adjust acceleration, deceleration, and braking intensity based on passenger load, enabling stable operation. Interior amenities include three large LCD displays per car showing destination and route information in four languages—Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean— three in-car security cameras per car, as well as door-opening warning lights and chimes, seat cushions next to the driver’s cab, and a multi-purpose space that doubles as a wheelchair area—equipped with cushions, two-tier handrails, and a dedicated heater. Combined with the improved ride comfort provided by the air-sprung bogies, these features enhance overall passenger comfort. The 2000 Series began service on October 1, with one train set each introduced on the Kotohira Line and the Nagao Line. With the introduction of the 2000 series, two sets (four cars) of the 1070 series—the oldest rolling stock in the fleet, manufactured between 1957 and 1958—will be replaced by the 2000 series and withdrawn from regular service. Additionally, the company plans to introduce another two sets (four cars) of the 2000 series in February 2027. The introduction cost for the 2000 series is approximately 500 million yen per set (two cars), totaling about 1 billion yen for the two sets (four cars) introduced this time. When the additional two sets (four cars) to be introduced by February 2027 are included, the total project cost will be 2.2 billion yen. Approximately 90 percent of this amount will be covered by subsidies from the national government, Kagawa Prefecture, and local municipalities along the line.
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