The ED46 was Japan's first dual-power (AC/DC) electric locomotive, jointly designed by the National Railways and Hitachi in August 1959. Only one unit was ever built, and its service lasted just 16 years, with only a few years of operation on the mainline. Despite its short lifespan, the ED46 left a lasting impression.
This locomotive was created as a prototype to connect the DC and AC sections before the electrification of the Joban Line north of Toride (Fujishiro to Katsuta). It was based on the structure of a DC electric locomotive, using rectifiers and transformers to power DC motors on the AC sections. Designed for passenger service, it was also equipped with an electric heating system.
Due to the added weight from the AC components, the ED46 was the first mainline electric locomotive to use a single-motor per axle configuration, along with a lightweight body and compact auxiliary equipment to improve efficiency.
Visually, the ED46 stood out with its gently slanted front windows, panoramic windows, and shielded beam headlights—innovations for Japan's electric locomotives. The locomotive's striking red-pink body with flowing silver stripes and distinctive skirt design set it apart from other electric locomotives of the time.
This product replicates the ED46 in its original form as it appeared when completed at Hitachi.

The number and markings are included as affixed.

SCALE

1:80

GAUGE

HO

MINIMUM PASSAGE RADIUS

R610mm

BODY MATERIAL

brass