By the early 1980s, most of the rolling stock on the Ginza Line were showing signs of aging; some of which dated back to before the Second World War, giving a dated image of the line to its passengers. Hence, the 01 series was introduced in 1984 with the design theme being "functionality," "brightness," and "chicness". The prototype was completed in May 1983, delivered in September and commenced service in 31 December 1983. It was followed by the introduction of production units from 1984 onward and the last unit, set number 38, was delivered in 1997 in time for the opening of . The 01 series was awarded the Laurel Prize from the Japan Railfan Club in 1985.