Japan's new track-testing shinkansen "Dr. S" makes debut

NAGOYA - Central Japan Railway Co. on Monday began commercial service of its new bullet inspection train "Dr. S," used to check tracks and overhead lines while carrying passengers on the Tokaido Shinkansen Line.

The train, which will replace one of the iconic "Doctor Yellow" trains retired in January last year, currently runs in regular passenger service but will begin using inspection equipment in January 2027 following testing. Four trainsets will be deployed -- two each for rail and overhead-line inspections.