Fukuoka City Subway will start operating its new “4000 Series” trains on the Airport Line and Hakozaki Line from November 29.
The new model was constructed to replace the 1000N Series trains, which have been running since the subway’s opening. By the end of the fiscal year 2024, it plans to have three sets or 18 cars in operation, and aims to update all 18 sets by the end of fiscal year 2027. The first train is scheduled to depart from Meinohama Station at 3 pm, headed for Fukuoka Airport Station.
The front and upper sides of the vehicles inherit the blue line used in the 1000N and 2000N series operating on the Airport Line and Hakozaki Line. The middle of the vehicle’s side features “Sky Blue,” representing Fukuoka Airport, the “gateway to the skies,” and a hopeful future.
The train’s interior is equipped with a triple display information indicator, with two screens for the route map and operation guide, and one screen for news and advertisements. Car 6 includes a free space, designed to be easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and features large windows that extend down for small children to view the scenery. Seats that are easily accessible for those with carry-on luggage are also available.
Each car is outfitted with four on-board security cameras, allowing both the crew and transportation bureau staff at the command center to monitor remotely. This real-time monitoring feature, connected through a dedicated line between the train and the traffic bureau, is a first for the subway. Additionally, the trains adopt synchronous reluctance motors, reducing power consumption by about 20% compared to existing vehicles that use induction motors.
