In service 1997–Present Constructed 1997 Scrapped 2013 | Manufacturer Niigata Tekkō Refurbishment 2007 Number built 1 vehicle | |
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The KiHa 160 (キハ160形) is a single-car diesel multiple unit (DMU) train operated by Hokkaido Railway Company (JR Hokkaido) in Japan. A single car was built in 1997 by Niigata Tekkō (now Niigata Transys) to replace the KiHa 130 DMU car (KiHa 130-5) withdrawn due to collision damage sustained in a level crossing accident in January 1996. The design was based on the Tsugaru Railway 21 series DMU built to Niigata's "NDC" lightweight design. From 2007, the unit was rebuilt as an experimental hybrid car, branded "Inno Tech Train".
History
When delivered, the unit was originally painted in a similar livery to the KiHa 150-0 units, with light green doors, a light green waistline band, and light purple stripes. From September 1999, it was repainted into a new livery similar to the KiHa 40-350 DMUs transferred to the Hidaka Line on which the KiHa 160 was used.
In 2007, the unit was rebuilt as an experimental hybrid vehicle using a motor-assisted hybrid system. At the same time, the longitudinal bench seating was replaced with limited-express style transverse seating.
Following the completion of testing, the unit was placed in storage at Naebo Works.