The JNR Class ED15 is a Japanese DC electric locomotive operated by the Japanese National Railways from 1926 to 1960.
History[]
The ED15 is an early electric locomotive used on Japan's rail network. Intended as passenger locomotives, the ED15s were the first domestically-produced Japanese locomotives intended for passenger use on minor lines.
Three locomotives were built from 1924 to 1926, all by Hitachi. They were originally classified as the Class 1070 and numbered 1070 through 1072, but were reclassified to Class ED15 when a rule regarding the standardization of locomotive names was enacted in 1928. 1070 was completed on 12 April 1924, with a public unveiling in December 1924. Test runs were conducted in 1925, with entrance into service in 1926. Initially used for freight trains on the Tōkaidõ Main Line, they were later moved to the Chūō Main Line, being stationed at Hachiōji before being moved back to the Tōkaidō Main Line. As the locomotives aged reliability issues became more frequent. Withdrawals commenced in 1959, with all locomotives withdrawn by 1960.
ED15 1, located at Hitachi's Mito Plant, is the only preserved ED15. It has since been designated as a Mechanical Engineering Heritage landmark.
Design[]
The ED15s featured large box-shaped bodies with large top-mounted headlights.
Specifications[]
The ED15s used a nose suspension drive system. MT17 traction motors were used on the locomotives.
Preservation[]
The following Class ED15 locomotives have been preserved:
| Number | Manufacturer | Equipment manufacturer | Date manufactured | Date retired | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ED15 1 | Hitachi | Hitachi | 12 April 1924 | 26 February 1960 | Hitachi Mito Plant, Ibaraki, Japan | Displayed under shelter; not open for public viewing |