Hiro

Hiro
	;
Number:	51
Class:	JNR D51
Designer:	Hideo Shima
Builder:	Kawasaki Heavy Industries Rolling Stock Company
Configuration:	2-5-2

Hiro is an old Japanese engine who visits Sodor frequently.

Bio

Hiro came the Island of Sodor a long time ago, but broke down and was put on a siding so he wouldn't be scrapped, but was eventually forgotten. Thomas found him, and promised to restore him before telling the Fat Controller in fear he would be scrapped. Eventually, all the engines, Victor, and Kevin promised to help Hiro, though Spencer was suspicious of them. Spencer eventually found his hiding spot and Thomas encouraged Hiro to run away from Spencer, but only led him to him breaking down again. Thomas then told the Fat Controller and he agreed to restore him. He later returned to Japan, stating that he missed his homeland, but has come back to visit Sodor very often.

Basis

Hiro is based on a JNR D51.

Persona

Hiro is an old steam engine who has been on Sodor for a very long time and was originally known as the "Master of the Railway". He is grand, masterful, and mature. He has an appreciation for serenity and order and often thinks fondly of his homeland, far away, where he was once one of the strongest engines. Hiro continues to be gentle, wise, and graceful, as well as a useful engine on the railway and good friend to the other engines, especially Thomas. He thinks that everyone, even trucks, deserve to be treated with respect.

Livery

Hiro is painted black with gold bands and fittings and red wheels. His name is written in black on gold nameplates on his smoke deflectors. He has the number "51" painted on the sides of his tender in white.

Appearances

Sodor Adventures

Season 1 - The Crashing Kipper (cameo), Streamlined Engines (cameo), and Nicholas the Crane (cameo)
Season 2 - Runaway Coaches (cameo), Quack! (cameo) and Hiro and the Express
Season 3 - Connor the Mr. Clean
Season 4 - Broken Down Crane
Season 5 - Sodor Snowstorm and Bert Tries His Best