Short History and Technological Significance on the Diesel-electric Multiple Unit, former Sagami Railway

Abstract

In this report, short history and technological significance of former Sagami Railway’s diesel-electric railcar will be explained. These four railcars were the first homemade railway vehicles in Japan, and had multiple unit controllable function. Main engine fitted out this railcar’s under flame was German-made; 90kW, Junkers two-stroke-cycle. In the railcar’s body construction, light-weight design was introduced and total weight was 17.5t in working order. Contents of this report are as follows; 1) Short history of introduction of Japan’s diesel railcars, 2) Production of multiple unit controllable diesel railcars, 3) Conclusion and significance of technological history on this diesel-electric railcar.