Japan: The passenger operator plans to base its new-generation rolling stock of the E927 Series on the high-speed E11 train, which is also under development now. Similar to the E10 trains, the design of the future inspection vehicle is entrusted to Tangerine, UK.
JR East’s current fleet comprises five E926 inspection trains, produced by Japanese J-TREC in 2001. They can operate at a speed of up to 275 km/h, monitoring the condition of tracks, catenary and signalling infrastructure. The new E927 trains are due to have the same functions, but they will be fitted with new equipment able to detect failures at higher speeds.
The E927 Series will feature an underfloor system integrating several sensors and 2D lasers, which were tested on the experimental ALFA-X high-speed train. In addition, there will be mounted a new device for catenary inspection, developed by KRRI, the Korea Railroad Research Institute.
The E927 trains are expected to enter service by spring 2029. The vehicles will also be ready for driverless operation at a later date (JR East is gradually introducing such trains).
Meanwhile, other Japanese operators, JR Central and JR West, are going to withdraw their high-speed inspection trains after 2027. The functions will be delegated to the Shinkansen N700S regular passenger trains, which are to be upgraded to perform track monitoring.
