E8 Series Shinkansen
| E8 series | |
|---|---|
E8 Series set G2 in March 2024 | |
| In service | 2024–present |
| Manufacturer | |
| Designer | Ken Okuyama |
| Family name | Mini-shinkansen |
| Replaced | E3 series |
| Constructed | 2022–2026 |
| Entered service | 16 March 2024 |
| Number under construction | 23 vehicles (4 sets) |
| Number built | 66 vehicles (11 sets) |
| Number in service | 66 vehicles (11 sets) (as of June 2025) |
| Formation | 7 cars per trainset |
| Fleet numbers | G1–G15 |
| Capacity | 355 (26 Green + 329 standard) |
| Operators | JR East |
| Depots | Yamagata |
| Lines served | |
| Specifications | |
| Doors | 1 per side |
| Maximum speed |
|
| Electric system(s) | 20/25 kV AC, 50 Hz overhead catenary |
| Current collector(s) | Pantograph |
| Safety system(s) | |
| Multiple working | E5 series |
| Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge |
The E8 series (E8系) is a Japanese Shinkansen high-speed train type for Tsubasa services. In revenue service since 16 March 2024, it will progressively replace the E3 series from 2024 onwards, raising the top speed of the service from 275 to 300 kilometers per hour (171 to 186 mph). It is designed by Ken Okuyama, in cooperation with Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
Though 17 sets were originally planned to be built, this was reduced to 15 sets due to reduced travel demand caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These sets are to be built by Kawasaki Railcar Manufacturing and Hitachi.
The first set, numbered G1, was delivered to Sendai Shinkansen Depot on 30 January 2023.