Three test trains were constructed, with the second set having completed reliability trials on the Yosan Line east of Matsuyama (in Shikoku) in September 2013. The third set was undertaking gauge changing trials at Shin-Yatsushiro Station (on Kyushu), commencing in 2014 for a proposed three-year period, however testing was suspended in December 2014 after accumulating approximating , following the discovery of defective thrust bearing oil seals on the bogies. The train was being trialled between Kumamoto, travelling on the narrow gauge line to Shin-Yatsushiro, where a gauge changer was installed, so the GCT could be trialled on the Shinkansen line to Kagoshima. It was anticipated the train would travel approximately over the three-year trial.
three test trains were constructed with the second set having completed reliability trials on the yosan line east of matsuyama (in shikoku) in september 2013 the third set was undertaking gauge changing trials at shin-yatsushiro station (on kyushu) commencing in 2014 for a proposed three-year period however testing was suspended in december 2014 after accumulating approximating  following the discovery of defective thrust bearing oil seals on the bogies the train was being trialled between kumamoto travelling on the narrow gauge line to shin-yatsushiro where a gauge changer was installed so the gct could be trialled on the shinkansen line to kagoshima it was anticipated the train would travel approximately over the three-year trial