Hokkaido Shinkansen’s new H5 train has begun testing, completing its first run between Nanae depot and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station.
Test running of the H5, which is based on the E5 Shinkansen already operated by JR East on the Honshu island, began on December 1. The following day the train completed a second test drive to Kikonai Station.
The H5 will enter passenger service on March 31, 2016, slightly later than originally planned, with the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen between Honshu and Hokkaido.
The 10-car unit has a maximum operating speed of 320 km/h, restricted to 260 km/h on the main line and 140 km/h through the Seikan Tunnel. The H5 can carry 658 passengers, 55 in a standard car and 18 in Gran Class.
