489 series

489 series
489 series on a Noto service, May 2007
In service	1972–2012
Constructed	1971–1979
Number in service	None
Number preserved	2 vehicle
Operator(s)	JNR (1972–1987) JR East(1987–2000) JR-West (1987–2012)
Depot(s)	Kanazawa
Specifications
Maximum speed	120 km/h (75 mph)
Traction system	Resistor control
Electric system(s)	1,500 V DC / 20 kV AC, 50/60 Hz
Current collection method	overhead catenary
Braking system(s)	Dynamic brake, electro-pneumatic brake
Safety system(s)	ATS
Track gauge	1,067 mm (3 ft 6 in)

The 489 series (489系, Yonhyaku-hachijūkyū-kei^?) was a limited express electric multiple unit (EMU) train type introduced in March 1972 by Japanese National Railways (JNR) in Japan, and later operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and West Japan Railway Company (JR-West) until 2012.

The 489 series trains were developed from the earlier 485 series specially for use on the Hakusan and Asama limited express services operating over the steeply graded Usui Pass (Yokokawa Station - Karuizawa Station of old JNR Shinetsu Main Line). They were designed to operate in multiple with the JNR Class EF63 electric banking locomotives.

A 489 series EMU on an Asama service, August 1997

A 489 series EMU hauled by EF63 banking locomotives on an Hakusan service, June 1997

The 9-car sets operated by JR-West and based at Kanazawa depot for use on Noto and Hakutaka services were formed as shown below.

Cars 2, 5, and 7 were each fitted with two lozenge-type pantographs.

Following the end of regular Noto express services in March 2010, the three remaining JR-West 489 series sets based at Kanazawa depot lost their regular duties, and two sets were withdrawn in June and August of the same year.