The cars were designed to improve rail transport in rural areas, predominantly in the Tokushima and Kōchi prefectures. Fifty-six cars were manufactured by Niigata Tekkō (now known as Niigata Transys) from 1990 to 1998. The first cars entered service on 10 March 1990, with other cars being put into service over the coming years. The cars are intended to replace aging rolling stock on the lines they serve on as well.
Starting from June 2008, eighteen 1000 series cars were converted to 1200 series cars to allow them to perform multiple operations with the then-new 1500 series cars.
Design[]
The cars have a similar body style to the NDC diesel railcars produced by Niigata Tekkō around the same time period.
Specifications[]
Cars are made of stainless steel. The cars use SA6D125-H prime movers, with one per car. Each prime mover produces 294 kW (394 HP).
