Odakyu Electric Railway has decided to manufacture 3 trainsets of the new Romancecar 80000 series and announced an overview of the seating, including the View Group Seat (provisional name) and Relaxed Seat (provisional name). The trainsets are scheduled to enter service in March 2029.
Odakyu Electric Railway announced that it would proceed with the manufacture of 3 trainsets of the new Romancecar 80000 series, targeting entry into service in March 2029. The company said the trains are intended to serve not only sightseeing along the line, but also commuting, school travel and everyday use.
The new trains will feature four seat configurations, including the View Group Seat (provisional name) and Relaxed Seat (provisional name). The View Group Seats will accommodate 4 people and be arranged along large circular windows, creating a design where families and friends can enjoy conversation while taking in the scenery together.
The Relaxed Seats (provisional name) will be arranged in a 2-1 configuration, with seat widths among the largest in Japan's railway rolling stock. A seat design offering a high degree of individual privacy will provide comfort for people traveling with children, passengers carrying a lot of luggage, and those who prioritise working or reading alone.
The observation and standard seating areas will retain the appeal of previous models while pursuing a travel experience characteristic of the new Romancecar. The observation seating will enhance forward-facing views, while the standard seating will be designed as a bright, open space with a soft feel.