Kato 10-2143 N Scale E683 Series 4000 “Thunderbird” (Renewal Version) 5-Car Add-On Set

● Among the trains used on the Limited Express “Thunderbird,” the 683 Series 4000 subseries consists of 9-car fixed formations manufactured between 2009 and 2011. Unlike the 681 series and 683 series 0 subseries, its exterior is characterized by front-end gangway doors on both leading cars (the KuRo 683 is pre-equipped for installation) and single-arm pantographs. Additionally, to improve safety, an offset crash-resistant structure has been adopted, which can be observed on the car ends. In 2015, a renewal refurbishment was carried out, changing the exterior design from a gray-based scheme to one based on black and blue.
◆ In accordance with the current all-reserved seating operation, the seat display markings have been updated. The included stickers have also been revised to include destinations from before and after the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen extension to Tsuruga. By combining this set with the simultaneously released <10-2149 681 Series “Thunderbird” (Renewal Version) Add-on Set> and the scheduled February 2026 release <10-2144 683 Series 2000 Subseries “Noto Kagaribi”>, you can recreate a full 12-car formation just like the real train.
◆ The starter set is an all-in-one package that includes the 683 Series 4000, along with everything needed for operation: rolling stock, track (Unitrack), and control equipment (Power Pack). As a step-up option, it is recommended to purchase additional add-on sets or the <10-2149 681 Series “Thunderbird” (Renewal Version) Add-on Set> to form a full consist, or expand the track layout to enjoy passing operations with other trains active in the same region.

Main Features
.Model represents the B35 formation belonging to the Kyoto branch of the Suita General Rolling Stock Depot
.Reproduces the black window band, blue stripes on the front and sides, and the emblem spanning across the coupling section
.The mechanically detailed AC/DC train pantograph area is recreated, with insulators reproduced as separate white parts
.Accurately reproduces underfloor equipment shapes that differ from the 0 / 2000 subseries
.Equipped with a newer type of lightning arrester seen on recent JR West rolling stock
.Includes a front gangway door part in the open position
.Car ends reproduce the offset crash-resistant structure
.Equipped with a coreless motor for smooth and quiet running performance
.Car 1 (KuRo 683-4500) features a dummy coupler with a coupler cover appearance, including a JR-marked electrical coupler cover as seen on recent JR West trains
.Car 9 (KuMoHa 683-5500) and intermediate couplings are equipped with body-mounted close-couplers (without hooks)
.Headlights and taillights illuminate; KuMoHa 683 includes a light-off switch
.Includes destination display stickers, featuring destinations from before the Hokuriku Shinkansen Tsuruga extension, allowing recreation of different eras
.DCC-friendly