Approximately 1,500 vehicles were built,[1] although by April 2016, JR East was the only operator still using this type.

The 481 series trains were introduced in 1964 for use on Hokuriku Line limited services, and were capable of operating under 1,500 V DC or 20 kV AC (60 Hz) overhead wire power supplies.

The 483 series trains were introduced in 1965 for use on Tohoku Main Line limited express services, and were capable of operating under 1,500 V DC or 20 kV AC (50 Hz) overhead wire power supplies.

These trains were capable of operating under 1,500 V DC or 20 kV AC (50/60 Hz) overhead wire power supplies.

[1] The original design was closely based on the bonnet-style 181 series EMU, with the primary difference being ceilings that were 12.5 cm (4.9 in) higher.