JNR Class ED15

The Class ED15 (ED15形) was an electric locomotive formerly operated in Japan from 1926 until 1960. The Class ED15 was the first mainline electric locomotive type to be built domestically in Japan.

History
Three locomotives were built by Hitachi in Mito, Ibaraki, in 1926, based on electric locomotives previously imported from overseas. Initially designated Class 1070 under the original Japanese Government Railways (JGR) numbering scheme, the locomotives became Class ED15 from 1928.

The locomotives were initially used on Tokaido Main Line freight services, and were later employed on the Chuo Main Line.

The locomotives were withdrawn from service between 1959 and 1960.

Preservation
ED15 1 is preserved at the Hitachi Mito Factory in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki.

Classification
The ED15 classification for this locomotive type is explained below.
 * E: Electric locomotive
 * D: Four driving axles
 * 15: Locomotive with maximum speed 85 km/h or less