(a) Introduction of high-performance body-tilting cars
The introduction of high-performance pendulum diesel cars is supposed because such cars allow running speed improvement in the curved section as well as in the straight section.
As for the car performance, many tests and operational services have been conducted on various narrow gauge lines in Japan. By referring to these experiences, the content to adapt to the Northern Line has been discussed.
(b) Measures for high-speed running
In order to realize effective high-speed running of the body-tilting cars mentioned above, the following measures will be needed.
* Cant raising and extension of transition curve length must be conducted in a part of the curved lines.
* The ongoing project for the track rehabilitation is prerequisite. Beside this, modifications of standards for turnouts, head hardened rails for the steep curved line, etc. are required.
* Crossing barriers will be installed at level crossing points with high traffic volume in cities.
(c) Adaptation measures to transport operation in the line
* A method of step-by-step raising of operation speed will be introduced, for securing safety running, mastering operation skill, and adaptation of passers along the railway.
* Providing more stable train operation services in the entire Northern Line, which will lead to effective time reduction of the new express trains and improved services in the whole line.
