EH800
The EH800 is JR Freight’s first AC electric locomotive introduced after privatization. It replaced the ED79 and EH500 units,
which became incompatible with the Tsugaru Kaikyō Line following the opening of the Hokkaido Shinkansen (Shin-Aomori to
Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto). A unique feature of the EH800 is the LCX antenna—similar to those used on Shinkansen trains—
housed in a distinctive bulge on the No. 2 end of the locomotive.
The EH800 mainly hauls freight between Higashi-Aomori and Goryōkaku, and it was also used on the Cassiopeia Cruise charter
service (June 2016 – February 2017). From 2022, updated versions of the EH800 have had the JRF logo removed during
inspection and maintenance, with running gear components repainted and the underframe now finished in dark gray.
Note: Reissued versions may differ in price, JAN code, and number plate details.
EH800 standard features③ Impressive two-unit body design, inherited from the EH500.
④ Detailed mechanical rooftop equipment typical of AC electric locomotives.
⑤ Realistically modeled LCX antennas on both bodies and a static discharge antenna on the cab roof, similar to Shinkansen
technology.
Couplers: Arnold couplers (knuckle couplers as replacements).
Details:
• Installed handrails, uncoupling levers, signal lanterns, static electricity antenna, train radio antenna, and whistle cover.
• Selectable number plates: “5,” “8,” “14,” and “19”, manufacturing plate printed with “Toshiba” (safety device markings
include “PF,” “SF,” “Ps,” and “C”).
Other:
• Lights: headlights and taillights are lit (warm LEDs).
• Flywheel-equipped power unit.