Wild Looking Japanese Snow Plow Train DE15 in Action

This is one of those videos that is strangely satisfying to watch. Seeing this Japanese train plowing through tons of snow, sending icy plumes flying to either side as it pushes effortlessly down the tracks, making them safe for other trains to use.

Resembling a huge steel owl when viewed from head on, the DE15 plow was built specifically for this job and it does it well. In a nation that is still heavily reliant on trains for commuter transport – it is estimated that less than 1 percent of railway usage is for the transportation of freight – keeping the tracks clear and clean is an important task. The DE15 is a key part of that task, running ahead of the commuter trains to ensure they reach their destinations on time.

This montage shows the train from every conceivable angle and at low and high speeds, giving us a great look at this unique train. Watching the wedge front plates sling snow as it passes is cool to see.