JR West began to re-build 223 series vehicles for special rapid service in 1999. With a lower floor and center of gravity than the -1000 series E223, the E223-2000 series units are able to have roof mounted air conditioners, unlike their 1000 series counterparts which needed them under the floor to place the weight lower in the cars. Currently, 223-2000 series EMUÃ?Â?Ã?Â?Ã?Â?Ã?Â?s are used on special rapid services of JR Kobe and Kyoto lines.