Two-door version introduced from November 1982 to replace 153 series EMUs on "Rapid" services in the Shimonoseki area.

JR-West 2-car sets converted in 1999 by building new cabs at one end of former MoHa (non-driving motor) cars.

In January 2017, Niigata-based set N3 was repainted into the original "Niigata Livery" of red and yellow formerly carried by JNR 70 series EMU trains.

[5] In April 2017, Shinano Railway three-car set S7 was repainted into the original Nagano livery of cream and green as part of the Shinshu area promotional campaign to be held from July to September 2017.

[6] In September 2017, Niigata-based set N37 was repainted in the first "Niigata area" livery.