Dear N Scale Customers;

Kato (Japan) has announced the August 2024 Releases

EF65 1000 Late Stage (JR) Electric Locomotive

● Item Introduction

The EF65 1000 series is a versatile DC electric locomotive designed for flat terrains, featuring double-heading control and adaptations for cold regions. It has been widely used in various roles, from hauling passenger trains, including Blue Trains, to freight operations. In the 2000s, the rubber seals in various parts were changed to black, and since 2006, coolers have been installed on the roof. Several units are still active today with JR East.

◆ This EF65 model from the early 2000s is perfect for pairing with the newly released 24 Series Sleeping car “Ginga”. It is an essential locomotive for the Blue Trains on the Tokaido and Sanyo main lines.

 Looking for more Kato Electric Locomotives? Click here!

24 Series Sleeping car “Ginga” 9-Car Set

● Item Introduction

・The "Ginga" was a night express train that connected Tokyo and Osaka from 1949 to 2008. Although the passenger cars used changed over time, the train was always composed of premium cars due to its important role on this major route. From 1976 onward, despite being an express train, it used deluxe sleeper cars of the 20, 14, and 24 Series types. In later years, while many express trains were upgraded or discontinued, the "Ginga" continued to operate as a night express with only A and B sleeping cars until the end.

◆ This set lets you enjoy the "Ginga," which was the last passenger car express train to operate on the Tokaido Main Line. For the best experience, we recommend pairing it with the newly re-released <3061-8 EF65 1000 Late Stage (JR)> and <3061-9 Electric Locomotive EF65 1118 Rainbow> locomotives.

◆ Product Features

• Features a set modeled after the early 2000s configuration with only A and B sleeping cars.

• Recreates the 24 Series and 24 Series 25 Type cars from the JR West Miyahara General Operation Center.

• The Ohanefu 25 and Ohane 25 cars have washroom windows and depict the emergency doors with their water drains intact and closed.

• The Ohanefu 25 includes the additional KE70 jumper socket on the front.

• The Kani 24 and Ohanefu 25 feature the JR logo on the side of the car bodies.

• Kani 24 104 and Ohanefu 25 132 have working tail lights and train markers. Ohanefu 25 132 includes a light switch.

• All intermediate connections use body-mounted, close-coupling connectors. The locomotive side features standard Arnold couplers (replacement knuckle couplers included).

• Includes interchangeable nameplates

• The bookcase can store one locomotive.

 

 

Series E657 (Especially Planned)

● Item Introduction

The E657 series debuted in 2011 as a flagship limited express multi-system electric locomotive for the Joban Line. In 2023, for the Ibaraki Destination Campaign, the E657 series was given a paint scheme inspired by the classic E653 series "Fresh Hitachi." This has attracted attention from both local residents and many railway enthusiasts. The actual train consists of five different color schemes, and KATO will commercialize the K12 trainset with the red paint scheme as part of their second lineup.

◆ It's an excellent addition for collectors, whether running alongside other JR East trains or as part of the ongoing five-color lineup.

◆ Product Features

• Reproduction of unique features of multi- system electric locomotives, such as insulators and high-voltage equipment around the pantograph, and roof-mounted train radio and WiMAX antennas.

• Adoption of a slotless motor to achieve smooth and quiet running.

• Standard equipment of body-mounted KATO coupler tight connections and body dampers in the intermediate connection part.

• Gray color for underfloor equipment, bogies, body dampers, and dummy couplers on the lead cars.

• Adoption of green-tinted glass for the front and side windows, similar to theactual vehicle.

• Destination display stickers included.

 

 

H5 Series Shinkansen "Hayabusa" Sets

● Item Introduction

The Hokkaido Shinkansen, which began operations on March 26, 2016, will be updated to the current specification for this new product. The H5 series, introduced alongside the initial opening of the line between Shin-Aomori and Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto, is based on the JR East E5 series but with some modifications to both the interior and exterior. While the exterior color scheme is similar to the E5 series, it features a lavender-colored stripe known as "Ayaka Purple," and a symbol mark inspired by Hokkaido and the white falcon is displayed on five cars in the formation.

◆ This product features a slotless motor for improved performance and has an updated set configuration. As a result, the product number, retail price, and JAN code have been changed.

 

◆ Product Features

• Features a different H1 formation from previous models.

• Recreates the current specification with some windows in cars 1 to 8 sealed due to the installation of luggage compartments.

• Side destination displays are printed in solid black, with destination display stickers included.

• Accurately reproduces the differences in interior layouts across various classes.

• Equipped with body tilt mechanism and front coupling mechanism (H514-1).

• Realistically and accurately depicts the distinctive lavender stripe and symbol mark of the H5 series. The end section's outer cover, which wraps around the top like the actual train, is also depicted in black.

• Uses a slotless motor for smooth and quiet operation.

• Includes a book-style vehicle case that accommodates 6 cars for both the basic and expansion sets. Sets can be arranged in formation order when collected.

• Working head and tail lights with white LEDs.

• As the product utilizes the E5 series body, some details may differ from the actual H5 series.

 

 

Anticipated Delivery Date: January 2025

 

 

Looking for more Kato Passenger Trains & Sets? Click here!

 

 

40Ft High Cube Container

● Item Introduction

The 40-foot high-cube container for ONE (Ocean Network Express) features distinctive magenta and gray colors from the 2017 merger of Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and Nippon Yusen's container divisions. It stands out on cargo ships, trains, and trailers.

◆ The Nippon Yusen container is painted in NYK Blue with the company flag and NYK LINE logo. Despite the integration into ONE, some containers still display the Nippon Yusen livery.

◆ Ideal for recreating freight trains with varied containers, this model adds a unique touch and can also be used in cargo station dioramas.

 

◆ Product Features

• Suitable for loading onto Japanese container freight cars.

• ONE (Gray): Features the gray used for general cargo dry containers and the vibrant magenta "ONE" logo, along with detailed markings.

• Nippon Yusen: A dry container in NYK Blue, beautifully reproducing the company flag and NYK LINE logo on the upper left side.

• Compatible with loading onto the Koki 106, 107, and 200 container cars.

• Ideal for recreating scenes of cargo terminals on freight station dioramas.

Looking for more Kato Containers & Chassis? Click here!

 

 

Cab Controllers

● Item Introduction

A one-handle controller that provides a realistic driving experience is finally available. Designed to mimic the texture, weight, and operation of an actual train control panel, it offers an authentic driving experience. When used in conjunction with a Sound Box, it enhances your model train operation with realistic sounds and movements.

◆ The KATO Proto-Power Cab Controller is sold as the main unit only. Please use it with a separately sold AC adapter for N/HO scale.

◆ The "Cab Controller with Sound Box" set, which includes a sound box, AC adapter, portable power connector, and a sound card for an immersive driving experience, will also be released simultaneously.

 

◆ Product Features

① KATO Proto-Power Cab Controller

• This controller works in conjunction with a Sound Box to provide a realistic operation experience, mimicking the feel of an actual train control panel.

• The handle shape and specifications accurately model the real train’s appearance. The notches are: “Power (P): 5 stages, Neutral (Cut), Brake (B): 8 stages + Emergency.” When in the “P” stage, the handle’s button can be pressed just like in a real train.

• In the “Cut” position, the train will maintain a constant speed during coasting.

• Use a separately sold N/HO scale AC adapter to match your needs for optimal operation with N and HO gauge trains.

• Includes a power supply function for the Sound Box.

• Insert the included master controller key to turn on the power. This also synchronizes the power supply to the Sound Box for ON/OFF control.

• When connected to the Sound Box, brake release operations (setting to “Cut”) will trigger brake release sounds. The sound synchronization volume (SYNC) allows independent adjustment for acceleration and deceleration, enhancing sound responsiveness.

• Features controls for maximum speed adjustment and acceleration/deceleration adjustment.

• Does not include side snap terminals. For applications requiring snap terminals, use the separately sold <22-081 Power Supply Connector (Distributor)>.

• Dimensions: 246mm x 124mm x 150mm; Weight: 2.2kg

• Input voltage: DC 13.5V / 17V (compatible with separately sold N and HO scale AC adapters). Output voltage: 0–12V / 0–16V, 2.0A

② Cab Controller with Sound Box

• Set Includes: KATO Proto-Power Cab Controller, Sound Box, Universal Power Connector, N/HO Scale AC Adapters, Sound Card Master Control Key x 1, Power Supply Cable, Sound Box Connection Cable, Jumper Cable, Instruction Manual, Operating Guide, Sound Card List.

 

 

Looking for more Kato Accessories, Parts & Track? Click here!

 

 

Anticipated Delivery Date: December 2024