Hitachi JNR EF81

Built by Hitachi, Mitsubishi

Weight

101 t

222,667 lb

Length

18.6 m

61 ft 0 in

Track gauge

1,067 mm

Cape gauge

Years built

1968–1992

161 units

Axle arrangement

Bo'Bo'Bo'

Overview of the Hitachi JNR EF81

Discover the JNR EF81, a versatile electric locomotive that has been a mainstay on Japanese railways since its introduction in 1968.

Built by Hitachi and Mitsubishi, this powerful engine features a Bo'Bo'Bo' wheel arrangement and has been a reliable workhorse for East Japan Railway Company, Japan Freight Railway Company, and West Japan Railway Company.

With a length of 18.6 meters and the ability to operate on both 1.5 kV DC and 20 kV AC (50 Hz and 60 Hz) systems, the EF81 showcases remarkable adaptability.

Operating on a 1067 mm gauge and weighing 101 tons, this locomotive is a significant part of Japanese railway history and a captivating subject for enthusiasts.

Hitachi JNR EF81 technical specifications

	Value	Imperial / US
Built by	Hitachi, Mitsubishi · 1968–1992161 units
Electric systems	1.5 kV DC 20 kV AC 50 Hz 20 kV AC 60 Hz
Track gauge	1,067 mmCape gauge3 ft 6 in	3 ft 6 in
UIC axle arrangement	Bo'Bo'Bo'
Length	18.6 m61 ft 0 in	61 ft 0 in
Width	2.9 m9 ft 6 in	9 ft 6 in
Height	4.28 m14 ft 1 in	14 ft 1 in
Weight	101 t222,667 lb	222,667 lb