Hanshin Electric Railway unveiled its new 3000 series train. The exterior design carries on the long-established image of its red-bodied trains, and the Rakuyan Seat reserved-seat service is scheduled to launch in spring 2027.
The new 3000 series was introduced as an express train. Its exterior incorporates the Re Vermilion design, while the train was presented as improving comfort and energy efficiency while carrying on the transport services of the existing fleet.
The trains are scheduled to enter service in spring 2027. Operations will initially begin with 1 trainset, followed by a gradual increase in the number of trainsets in service.
Along with the introduction of the 3000 series, the Rakuyan Seat reserved-seat service will also launch in spring of the same year. It will be available on some limited express and express trains running between Osaka-Umeda and Sanyo-Himeji. The reserved-seat ticket will cost ¥300 per ride, including tax.
As part of an effort to unify the designs of the new and existing fleets, the design of the existing express trains is also scheduled to be unified under the new Re Vermilion design. The 9300 series is likewise expected to undergo the design change in stages.
The development could affect the establishment of the image of Hanshin's express train fleet, and further updates are expected to draw attention.