Toyota Container Trains

[bill937ca]

 

 

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VexF1Dxetjw&feature=related

[KenS]

Pretty containers, and interesting.  One of the video descriptions identifies the train as carrying auto parts, and another as being "Tokaido Line high-speed freight train down leading EF210-150 (TOYOTA LONG PASS EXPRESS)" to Kasadera station. And Kasadera is the site of a Toyota manufacturing facility so it makes sense they'd need a big supply of parts.

 

But an entire express train of auto-parts? The mind boggles (well, mine does anyway).  Where does it come from, and why isn't it more efficient to ship a few containers on a regular basis in other trains (or could that be a daily train)?

 

The container type is a U55A, and googling for that turns up a few photos, and some cryptic comments on one about "Nippon Express Co., 50000 Job TOYOTA ban prohibits carrying cargo under the wire Toppurifuta", which might mean there's some restriction in their use on electrified lines, except that the videos show them being transported there.

 

Maybe those are empties coming back (suggesting Kasadera is the source of the parts), or maybe the prohibition is on carrying cargo other than Toyota's. Anyone know?

[bikkuri bahn]

The container type is a U55A, and googling for that turns up a few photos, and some cryptic comments on one about "Nippon Express Co., 50000 Job TOYOTA ban prohibits carrying cargo under the wire Toppurifuta", which might mean there's some restriction in their use on electrified lines, except that the videos show them being transported there.

 

Yes, it's referring to wing folding type ("toplifter") containers used on this service.  Of course transport of these containers under the catenary is OK, but when unloading, flats must be moved to an area away from the wires.  This is usually the case anyway, as diesel shunters (typically a DE10 for JR tracks) will be working the yard.

 

Here is another blog with more pictures of this type of container:

http://uso800railway.blog116.fc2.com/blog-entry-345.html

[bill937ca]

 

Another Toyota container train with a Shonan-Shinjuku train in the background.

[westfalen]

There's more variety to modern Japanese freight trains than you think. Anyone know if models of these containers are available?

[bill937ca]

In N gauge there are containers by Tomix, Pro-Hobby, Hogarakadou, Modemo, Platz, Kawai, and Micro Ace. Now whether they're all available is another matter.  Don't forget Japanese eBay vendors when looking for containers.

 

Here's a HS search for container.

 

http://www.1999.co.jp/search_e.asp?Typ1_c=104&SC=176&Typ=0&sortID=0&scope=0&urikire=1&andor=&scope2=0&ItKey=container&SPage=1