Japan debuts world’s first freight-only Shinkansen, repurposed E3 series bullet train running at 275 kmph.

Key facts

• East Japan Railway Company launched the world’s first dedicated freight-only Shinkansen, repurposed from the E3 series passenger bullet train.
• The train operates between Morioka and Tokyo along the Tohoku Shinkansen line, covering the distance in just over three hours.
• It carries up to 1,000 boxes or roughly 17.4 tonnes of goods per trip, with reinforced flooring and securing systems for high-speed stability.
• Cargo includes fresh scallops from Iwate Prefecture, precision equipment, fresh seafood, premium agricultural produce, dairy, ready-to-eat food, semiconductors, electronic components, medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, laboratory samples, optical instruments, and specialised industrial machinery.
• The concept evolved from COVID-19 pandemic trials when goods were transported inside passenger compartments due to reduced passenger numbers.