Background and overview
JR Kyushu developed 817-1000 series rural AC electric multiple unit (EMU) trains to replace superannuated 457 series and 475 series EMU trains used on Kagoshima and Nippo lines rural services in 2003. Their traction transformer was changed into TM409K-H with a higher power output and their traction system PC402KC-H to suppose to change their number of the train set into three. They were also introduced a high-power ancillary power supply unit, SC402K, employing IGBT with a power output of 15kVA. Furthermore, their air conditioner was changed into AU407KS rated at 42,500kcal/h. As their accommodation, stanchions were additionally fitted behind fold-down ancillary seating at the doorway.
Modification
They were scheduled to undergo a programme of refurbishment from 2021. Their accommodation was changed into longitudinal seating by removement of armrests, setback fixedness, and direction change of existing flip-over transverse seating and they were renumbered into -1500 subseries. At the same time, fold-down ancillary seating located at the doorway was gotten rid of, and external security cameras were fitted on the side of the vehicle for driver only operation.
Operations
12 two-car sets consisting of 1 powered vehicle and 1 trailer vehicle were
delivered in 2003 and entered revenue services on Chikuhou and Sasaguri
lines branded "Fukuhoku Yutaka" line. in order to displace existing
817-0 series which relocate to Kagoshima and Nippo lines in order to superannuated
475 and 457 series EMU trains. 2 Additional sets were delivered in 2005.
Subsequently, 6 two-car sets were redeployed to Kagoshima region and 4
Kumamoto region. They are now used on the regional and rural services of
Chikuhou and Sasaguri lines branded "Fukuhoku Yutaka" line, Kagoshima,
Houhi, and Nippo lines. |
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