Vande Bharat (trainset)
{{Short description|Indian semi-high-speed EMU trainsets}}
{{About|the chair car trainset|Vande Bharat Express services offered by Indian Railways|Vande Bharat Express|the sleeper trainset|Vande Bharat (sleeper trainset)}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2023}}
{{Use Indian English|date=October 2023}}
{{Infobox train
| name = Vande Bharat
| background = #28457D
| image = {{Photomontage|position=center
|photo1a=Vande Bharat Express around Mumbai.jpg
|photo2a=New_Jalpaiguri_Patna_Saffron_Grey_Mini_Vande_Bharat_Transet_2024-03-04-061128.jpg
|size=300
|spacing=2
|color=white
|border=0
|foot_montage=
}}
| imagesize = 300px
| interiorimage = Vande Bharat Executive Chair Car interior layout.jpg
| service = 2019–present
| manufacturer = ICF
| designer = RDSO
| assembly = Chennai
| ordernumber =
| factory = ICF
| family =
| replaced =
| yearconstruction = 2017−present
| yearservice = 15 February 2019
| refurbishment =
| yearscrapped =
| numberconstruction =
| numberbuilt = {{ubl
| First generation
| 16-car: 2
| Second generation
| 8-car: 52
| 16-car: 20
}}
| numberservice = 66
| numberpreserved =
| numberscrapped =
| successor =
| formation = {{ubl|8 cars (2 power units)|16 cars (4 power units)|20 cars (5 power units)}}
| diagram =
| code =
| fleetnumbers =
| capacity = {{ubl|530 (8-car)|1,128 (16-car){{Cite news |date=11 April 2023 |title=First Semi-high-speed Train in India: All You Need to Know |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/worlds-first-semi-high-speed-passengertrain-all-you-need-to-know-about-vande-bharat-express-train/articleshow/99399277.cms |access-date=3 June 2023 |issn=0971-8257}}|1,440 (20-car)}}
| owner = Indian Railways
| operator = Indian Railways
| lines = 66
| carbody = Light-weight stainless steel{{Cite web |date=28 July 2022 |title=Stainless steel – The optimum material choice for Vande Bharat Trainsets |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/railways-stainless-steel-the-optimum-material-choice-for-vande-bharat-trainsets-2609012/ |access-date=3 June 2023 |website=The Financial Express |language=en}}
| trainlength = {{Cvt|384|m}} (16-car){{Cite web |last=Sushil |date=18 October 2022 |title=10 Amazing Facts You Don't Know About India's Vande Bharat Train |url=https://indiastatebook.com/10-amazing-facts-you-dont-know-about-indias-vande-bharat-train/ |access-date=3 June 2023 |website=India State Book |language=en-US}}
| carlength = {{Cvt|24|m}}{{Cite web |title=Vande Bharat Trainset maintenance manual |url=https://rdso.indianrailways.gov.in/works/uploads/File/VANDE_BHARAT_Volume_2.pdf |access-date=31 August 2020 |website=indianrailways}}
| lowfloor =
| floorheight =
| platformheight =
| entrylevelorstep = Platform level
| doors = Automatic doors
| wheeldiameter = {{Cvt|0.952|m}}
| wheelbase = Bogie centres
| maxspeed = {{ubl|{{Cvt|183|km/h}} (tests){{cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/new-updates/watch-vande-bharat-clocks-183-km-but-glass-filled-to-the-brim-with-water-stays-stable/articleshow/94026983.cms |title=Watch: Vande Bharat clocks 183 km but glass filled to the brim with water stays stable|publisher=Economic Times|date=6 September 2022}}
| weight = {{Convert|392|t}}{{Cite news |date=30 September 2022 |title=Vande Bharat Express: All you need to know about newly made semi-high speed train |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/vande-bharat-express-all-you-need-to-know-about-newly-made-semi-high-speed-train/articleshow/94540329.cms |access-date=4 June 2023 |issn=0013-0389}}|{{Cvt|160|km/h}} (service)}}
| engine =
| enginetype =
| cylindercount =
| cylindersize =
| displacement =
| traction motors = TSA-Medha Servo Drives TME 49-30-4{{cite web | url=https://www.tsa.at/tsa_referenzen/tsa-traction-drive-for-high-speed-emu-train-18-copy/ | title=TSA Traction Drive for High Speed EMU Train 18}}
| poweroutput = {{ubl|{{Cvt|210|kW}} (single motor)|{{Cvt|1680|kW}} (4-car power unit)|{{Cvt|3360|kW}} (8-car)|{{Cvt|6720|kW}} (16-car)|{{Cvt|8400|kW}} (20-car)}}
| tractiveeffort = {{ubl|{{Cvt|26.6|kN}} (single motor)|{{Cvt|212.8|kN}} (4-car power unit)|{{Cvt|425.6|kN}} (8-car)|{{Cvt|851.2|kN}} (16-car)|{{Cvt|1064|kN}} (20-car)}}
| transmission = TSA-Medha Servo Drives GKD 1-52-372A{{cite web | url=https://www.tsa.at/tsa_referenzen/tsa-gearbox-for-india-high-speed-emu-train-18/|title=TSA Gearbox for High Speed EMU Train 18}}
| acceleration = {{Cvt|0.7|m/s2}}
| deceleration = {{Cvt|0.8|m/s2}}
| aux =
| powersupply =
| hvac =
| electricsystem = {{25 kV 50 Hz}} via overhead line
| collectionmethod = Pantograph
| uicclass =
| aarwheels =
| wheels driven = {{ubl|16 (4-car power unit)|32 (8-car)|64 (16-car)|40 (20-car)}}
| bogies =
| minimum curve = {{Cvt|145.83|m|ft}}
| brakes = Electro-pneumatic
| safety = {{Hlist|Electrical fire safety|Fire alarm system|Disaster management lights|Train event recorder|HVAC|Voice communication and passenger information system|Centralized coach monitoring system}}
| coupling = Tightlock (AAR-E/H)
| multipleworking =
| light = LED
| gauge = {{track gauge|1676mm|allk=on}}
| notes =
| seating = Longitudinal (Chairs)
| stocktype = Electric multiple unit
}}
The Vande Bharat trainset, formerly known as Train 18, is an Indian electric multiple unit chair car trainset for long-distance traffic designed and developed by Indian Railways at its Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. The train achieved a maximum speed of {{Cvt|183|km/h}} during its trial runs and has a maximum speed of {{Cvt|160|km/h}} in regular service.{{Cite web |date=3 April 2023 |title=Bhopal Delhi Vande Bharat Express: TOP SPEED of 160 kmph! Is food free in Delhi to Bhopal semi high-speed train? Know time, route, ticket price |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/business-economy/industry/bhopal-delhi-vande-bharat-express-top-speed-of-160-kmph-is-food-free-in-delhi-to-bhopal-semi-high-speed-train-know-time-route-ticket-price-article-99210203 |access-date=3 April 2023 |website=TimesNow |language=en}} There are 8-car, 16-car and 20-car versions.
History
= Dawn of EMUs =
{{See also|Multiple units of India}}
File:Inaugural train at Victoria Terminus, Bombay.jpg]]
The first electric multiple unit (EMU) technology in India was introduced in Mumbai as a suburban railway service on 3 February 1925.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/age-is-just-a-number-she-can-keep-mumbais-life-on-track-even-at-90/|title=Age is just a number, she can keep Mumbai's life on track even at 90|work=The Indian Express|date=9 February 2015}} With an increase in demand post-independence, India began to import EMUs from Europe and Japan, before it could manufacture indigenously. In the 1960s, BHEL, an Indian public sector giant started manufacturing electrical equipment for indigenous EMUs, which then started entering service in the same decade.{{Cite web |date=15 October 1999 |title=Electrical Multiple Units |url=https://st2.indiarailinfo.com/kjfdsuiemjvcya1/0/8/0/2/4684802/1/multipleunits1091923.pdf |website=Indian Rail Info }}{{Cite web |title=Historical Background of Railway Electrification |url=https://core.indianrailways.gov.in/view_section.jsp?lang=0&id=0,294,302,530#:~:text=The%20first%20electric%20train%20ran,electrified%20on%201500%20Volt%20DC. |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=core.indianrailways.gov.in}} During the same time, Integral Coach Factory of Chennai, a government-owned manufacturer of rail coaches started developing EMUs indigenously. This is regarded as a major leap in the Indian railway industry as they became the earliest precursors to Vande Bharat technology.
File:Adra asansol MEMU.JPG - Asansol MEMU, the first MEMU service in India which began operation in 1995]]
By the 1990s, Indian Railways had a large number of EMU trainsets within the cities of Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai on their suburban railways. For regular long-distance travel, India continued relying on locomotives. The inefficiency of these locomotive-hauled trains was soon felt while the developed world already had well-built EMU high-speed technology by the 1990s. EMUs for longer distances were conceived on the long-distance main lines, which led to the development of mainline electric multiple units (MEMU). With the advantages of faster acceleration-deceleration, presence of driver cabins at both ends, being energy efficient with regenerative braking, encouraged Indian Railways to develop MEMUs for distances beyond the suburban belt. A decade later, India had several MEMUs operating across the country's electrified routes as a short-distance inter-city service. However, India still had to rely on locomotives for medium and long-distance travel.{{Cite web |title=MEMU |url=https://www.irfca.org/gallery/Suburban/MEMU/ |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=irfca.org}}
= The need for speed and comfort =
For most of Indian Railways' history, speed and comfort were not of primary concern as safety was of utmost importance. While India saw 325 accidents in 2003–04, this number was down to 106 in 2015–16.{{Cite web |title=What Explains the High Number of Railway Accidents? |url=https://thewire.in/uncategorised/railway-safety-accident-derailment |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=The Wire}} The replacement of old ICF coaches by the modern and safer LHB coaches also helped the cause significantly.{{Cite web |date=26 June 2014 |title=LHB coaches reduced number of casualties |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/415982/lhb-coaches-reduced-number-casualties.html |access-date=19 May 2023 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}} During the same period, Indian Railways had introduced Gatimaan and Tejas services that enhanced comfort with their modern LHB coaches. As the next step, Indian Railways at ICF headed by general manager Sudhanshu Mani, started designing a new EMU trainset that was set to be developed at half the imported cost. Since these trains were planned to be ready by 2018, they were named 'Train-2018' and later 'Train 18'. They were designed to be fully air-conditioned and equipped with automatic doors, onboard Wi-Fi, and infotainment and many other modern facilities. It would mark the beginning of a new era in the Indian Railways where modern EMUs for long distances beyond suburban railways started plying.{{Cite web |date=20 February 2017 |title=Indian Railways to roll out 'Make in India' 160 kmph self-propelled 'world-class' train sets at half the cost of import! |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/indian-railways-to-roll-out-make-in-india-160-kmph-self-propelled-world-class-train-sets-at-half-the-cost-of-imports/558791/ |access-date=20 May 2023 |website=The Financial Express |language=en}} Train 18 was designed with the LHB coach as a base. With sixteen chair cars and a 160 km/h speed, the technology was set to replace Shatabdi services.{{Cite web |date=27 March 2018 |title=Indian Railways enters new league! Swanky 160 kmph engine-less Make in India train is too good; 15 features |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/photos/business-gallery/1112743/train-18-indian-railways-self-propelled-160kmph-speed-features-images-make-in-india/ |access-date=20 May 2023 |website=The Financial Express |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Indian Railways to Replace Shatabdi Express with 'Made in India' Semi-High Speed, Engine-Less Train 18 {{!}} India.com |url=https://www.india.com/news/india/indian-railways-to-replace-shatabdi-express-with-made-in-india-semi-high-speed-engine-less-train-18-2968511/ |access-date=20 May 2023 |website=www.india.com |language=en}}
= Second generation trainsets =
{{Multiple image
| direction = vertical
| total_width = 225
| image1 = Mini Vande Bharat Saffron-Grey livery.jpg
| image2 = Mini Vande Bharat Blue-White livery.jpg
| footer = Liveries of the Second-Generation Mini Vande Bharat Express trains
| align = left
}}
In January 2021, Indian Railways awarded a {{INRConvert|22.11|b|year=2021}} contract to Hyderabad-based Medha Servo Drives to manufacture 44 second generation Vande Bharat trainsets, in accordance with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative that required 75% of the components to be locally sourced.{{Cite news |last=Jacob |first=Shine |date=21 September 2020 |title=Indian Railways floats fresh tender for 44 Vande Bharat train sets |work=Business Standard India |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/indian-railways/indian-railways-invites-fresh-bids-for-44-vande-bharat-train-sets-120092101431_1.html |access-date=5 December 2022}}{{cite web |title=Railways award contract of ₹2211 crore for manufacturing 44 Vande Bharat rakes |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/railways-give-contract-of-rs-2211-crore-for-manufacturing-44-vande-bharat-rakes-101611318265235.html |website=Hindustan Times |access-date=5 December 2022 |language=en |date=22 January 2021}} In March 2022, Indian Railways awarded contracts to seven companies to manufacture 58 additional trainsets at a total cost of {{INRConvert|18.5|b|year=2022}}. The seven companies were Medha Servo Drives, Alstom, Siemens, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), Titagarh Wagons, Saini Electricals and CGL.{{cite web |last1=Jha |first1=Srinand |title=Indian Railways awards traction contracts for Vande Bharat EMU fleet |url=https://www.railjournal.com/regions/asia/indian-railways-awards-traction-contracts-for-vande-bharat-emu-fleet/ |website=International Railway Journal |access-date=5 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220403151405/https://www.railjournal.com/regions/asia/indian-railways-awards-traction-contracts-for-vande-bharat-emu-fleet/ |archive-date=3 April 2022 |date=14 March 2022 |url-status=live}} During manufacturing, the supply of wheels from Ukraine was disrupted due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, delaying production.{{Cite web |date=9 May 2022 |title=First shipment of Vande Bharat Train wheels from war-torn Ukraine to reach Chennai on May 12 |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/first-shipment-of-vande-bharat-train-wheels-to-reach-chennai-on-may-12-8476971.html |access-date=21 May 2023 |website=Moneycontrol |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=First shipment of Vande Bharat Train wheels from war-torn Ukraine to reach Chennai on May 12 |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/first-shipment-of-vande-bharat-train-wheels-to-reach-chennai-on-may-12-8476971.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Moneycontrol |date=9 May 2022 |language=en}} Indian Railways later sought Steel Authority of India (SAIL) and Rashtriya Ispat Nigam (RINL) to manufacture the wheels.{{Cite web |date=17 May 2022 |title=SAIL, RINL to make wheels for Vande Bharat Express trains, more to come from Malaysia, US, China |url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/infrastructure/sail-rinl-to-make-wheels-for-vande-bharat-express-trains-more-to-come-from-malaysia-us-china-13518432.htm |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=cnbctv18.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=9 September 2022 |title=In a first, railways floats tender for a new plant to make 80,000 train wheels |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/in-a-first-railways-floats-tender-for-new-plant-to-make-80-000-train-wheels-101662740224242.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}} On 9 September 2022, trial runs for the second version of Vande Bharat Express were completed, during which it broke the acceleration record as it accelerated from {{Cvt|0–100|km/h}} in just 52 seconds, making it two seconds faster than Japanese bullet trains in acceleration.{{Cite news |title=With 100 KMPH Speed In 52 Seconds, Vande Bharat Express Beats Japanese Bullet Train |work=news18 |url=https://www.news18.com/news/auto/with-100-kmph-speed-in-52-seconds-vande-bharat-express-beats-japanese-bullet-train-6026509.html}}{{Cite news |date=15 September 2022 |title=Vande Bharat takes around 5 hours in Ahmedabad-Mumbai trial run, breaks bullet train record |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/mumbai-news/vande-bharat-takes-around-5-hours-in-ahmedabad-mumbai-trial-run-breaks-bullet-train-record/articleshow/94127912.cms |access-date=21 May 2023 |issn=0013-0389}} It entered service on 30 September 2022.{{cite web |date=30 September 2022 |title=Vande Bharat Express 2.0: PM flags off a new train between Gandhinagar and Mumbai, here's all to know |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/economy/story/vande-bharat-express-20-pm-modi-flags-off-new-train-between-gandhinagar-and-mumbai-348690-2022-09-30 |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Business Today |language=en}}
In early 2023, an allocation was made for Vande Bharat services with a reduced car configuration, for lower demand, known as Mini Vande Bharat Express. It was projected to cost about {{INRConvert|650|m}} per rake for an 8-car configuration, at a cost of {{INRConvert|81.25|m}} per car. Indian Railways was targeting for manufacturing 1,000 Mini Vande Bharat rakes of 8-car configuration. During the financial year of 2023–24, an allocation of {{INRConvert|1|m}} had been made for designing the concept and preliminary research.{{cite news |date=6 February 2023 |title=8-car mini Vande Bharat trains get funds from budget; to run intercity |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/8car-mini-vande-bharat-trains-get-funds-from-budget-to-run-intercity-101675623899853.html |access-date=8 April 2023 |work=Hindustan Times |language=en}}
In July 2023, Indian Railways announced a new saffron and grey livery for Vande Bharat trains inspired by the Indian tricolour.{{Cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/vande-bharats-new-look-inspired-by-tricolour-know-all-about-upgrades-made-in-train-2403973-2023-07-09 |title=Vande Bharat's new look inspired by Tricolour. Know all about upgrades made in train |date=9 July 2023 |access-date=14 July 2023 |work=India Today}} The Union Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, said that 25 improvements have been incorporated into the trains, including anti-climbing devices. These anti-climbing devices will also be added to trains other than Vande Bharat.
In August 2024, trial runs of 20-car Vande Bharat were conducted on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad route.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/watch-new-20-coach-vande-bharat-train-trial-run-conducted-on-mumbai-ahmedabad-route-faster-service-to-start-soon/articleshow/112422235.cms |title=Watch: New 20-coach Vande Bharat train trial run conducted on Mumbai-Ahmedabad route; Faster service to start soon |date=10 August 2024 |access-date=24 August 2024 |work=The Economic Times |language=en}}
Engineering
File:Cabin of Vande Bharat Express.jpg
As part of the "Make in India" initiative, the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) created and produced the Vande Bharat Express.{{cite news |title=Seven companies bags order for 58 Vande Bharat trains |url=https://www.constructionworld.in/transport-infrastructure/metro-rail-and-railways-infrastructure/seven-companies-bags-order-for-58-vande-bharat-trains/33103 |work=www.constructionworld.in |language=en |quote=Currently, two Vande Bharat Express trains are operational, and 44 are being manufactured at Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that 400 new semi-high-speed Vande Bharat trains would be rolled out in the next three years}}{{cite news |last1=Porecha |first1=Maitri |title=Railways cancels ₹30,000 crore Vande Bharat tender as negotiations fail |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/railways-cancels-30000-crore-vande-bharat-tender-as-negotiations-fail/article68520987.ece |access-date=11 December 2024 |work=The Hindu |date=13 August 2024 |language=en-IN |quote=Integral Coach Factory and creator of the Vande Bharat train}} There are two generations of the train with design upgrades and addition of new features with subsequent generations.{{Cite web |last=Sanyal |first=Debarghya |date=1 December 2022 |title=Who's the brain behind Vande Bharat? |url=https://www.business-standard.com/podcast/current-affairs/who-s-the-brain-behind-vande-bharat-122120100513_1.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Business Standard |language=en}}{{cite AV media |date=1 December 2022 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Db6wS_ox1E |title=Who's the brain behind Vande Bharat? |work=Business Standard |via=YouTube |access-date=15 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202055717/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Db6wS_ox1E |archive-date=2 December 2022 |url-status=live}}
= First generation =
File:Vande Bharat Express Economy Chair Car (interior).jpg
File:Vande Bharat Express Executive Chair Car (interior).jpg
The exterior of the first version of Vande Bharat Express had an aerodynamic design that helped to reduce air resistance at high speeds.{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/train-18-countrys-first-engine-less-train-rolled-out-train-20-next/articleshow/66419774.cms|title=Train 18: Country's first engine-less train rolled out; Train 20 next|date=29 October 2018|work=The Economic Times|access-date=5 November 2018}} It had a driver's cabin at each end, that enables immediate switch in train's direction, unlike a locomotive-hauled train.{{cite news|url=http://www.uniindia.com/news/india/self-propelled-train-18-debuts-for-trial-run/1391824.html|title=Self-propelled Train 18 debuts for trial run|date=29 October 2018|work=United News of India|access-date=4 November 2018}} The 16-car trainset weighs {{convert|430|t}} and has a seating capacity of 1,128 passengers.{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/indian-railways/the-crown-jewel-of-indian-railways-is-a-billion-rupee-made-in-india-train-118102900370_1.html|title=Train 18, India's first engine-less train, is also the country's fastest|last1=Shine|first1=Jacob|date=29 October 2018|work=Business Standard|access-date=4 November 2018|location=New Delhi, India}} Two of the centre compartments are first-class compartments that seat 52 each, with the rest being chair car compartments seating 78 each.{{cite news |date=29 October 2018 |title=Pics: Train 18 To Begin Trial Run Today. Here Are 10 Things To Know |work=NDTV Profit |url=https://www.ndtv.com/business/train-18-indias-fastest-train-route-launch-date-today-features-engineless-rotating-seats-in-pictures-1939151 |access-date=4 November 2018}} The chassis of a coach is {{convert|23|m}} long, and the frame of the train is made entirely of stainless steel. Alternate coaches are motorised to ensure an even distribution of power and quicker acceleration and deceleration. The cars are interconnected and fully sealed to allow better mobility between coaches and reduce noise. The train features a GPS-based passenger information system, bio-vacuum toilets, and rotational seats that can be aligned in the direction of travel in the executive class,{{cite web |date=3 December 2018 |title=Train 18: Top features and facilities of the country's 'fastest train' |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/train-18-top-features-and-facilities-of-the-countrys-fastest-train/article25652410.ece |work=The Hindu}} and employs a regenerative braking system.{{Cite news |last=Prabhakar |first=Siddarth |date=9 December 2018 |title=ICF asked to make two more Train-18 rakes before Lok Sabha polls |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/icf-asked-to-make-two-more-train-18-rakes-before-ls-polls/articleshow/67006773.cms}}
This version reached a maximum speed of {{Cvt|180|km/h}}. It could accelerate to a speed of {{Cvt|100|km/h}} in 54.6 seconds and reach its maximum speed in 145 seconds. Trains were equipped with {{convert|24|in|cm|adj=on}} television screens that serve as the passenger information and entertainment system. The train's underframe electrical equipment can withstand floods up to {{Cvt|400|mm}}. Among the imported components were the wheels, seats, doors, braking system, transformers, and electronic parts such as processing chips.{{Cite web |last=Gupta |first=Moushumi Das |date=23 October 2022 |title=Hi-tech machines, 9,000+ workforce — inside Integral Coach Factory making Vande Bharat trains |url=https://theprint.in/india/hi-tech-machines-9000-workforce-inside-integral-coach-factory-making-vande-bharat-trains/1175653/ |access-date=24 October 2022 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}{{cite news |last1=Prabhakar |first1=Siddarth |date=23 October 2018 |title=First Made-in-India engineless train gets on track for trial run |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/first-made-in-india-train-set-ready-for-trial-run/articleshow/66324376.cms}}
= Second generation =
File:Vande Bharat Chair Car interior layout.jpg
File:Vande Bharat Executive Chair Car interior layout.jpg
The second generation trains were built in 2022 and they could accelerate to a speed of {{Cvt|100|km/h}}{{Cite web |date=24 January 2023 |title=Vande Bharat Express Engine Type Power 0 to 100Km/h |url=https://vandebharat.com/article/vande-bharat-express-engine/ |access-date=24 January 2023 |website=Vande Bharat |language=en}} in a record time of 52 seconds, compared to the 54 seconds taken by the older version. The train could reach a speed of {{Cvt|160|km/h}} in 140 seconds, 5 seconds faster than the first generation of the train. It is lighter, weighing {{convert|392|t}} compared to {{convert|430|t}} of the previous version, and is equipped with larger {{convert|32|in|cm|adj=on}} television screens and Wi-Fi on board. The air conditioning system on the VB2 utilises 15% less energy than the system on the first Vande Bharat trainset. VB2 also has automatic plug doors, sliding doors that don't need to be touched, emergency communication units, accessible toilets, a bigger driver's cabin, and seats in all coaches that can be leaned back.{{Cite web |date=10 September 2022 |title=Vande Bharat train gets safety nod, likely to be flagged off on September 30 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/vande-bharat-train-gets-safety-nod-likely-to-be-flagged-off-on-september-30-101662834491749.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=29 November 2022 |title=Vande Bharat Express: Everything you need to know about the semi-high-speed train |url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/travel/vande-bharat-express-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-semi-high-speed-train-15092861.htm |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=cnbctv18.com |language=en}} To address the seat reclining issues of the previous version, the new chairs were equipped with a push-back arrangement for smooth reclining.
This version is additionally equipped for safety and protection with Kavach signalling technology.{{Cite web |last=Jha |first=Srinand |date=7 October 2022 |title=Indian Railways launches upgraded Vande Bharat EMU |url=https://www.railjournal.com/fleet/indian-railways-launches-upgraded-vande-bharat-emu/ |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=International Railway Journal |language=en-GB}} The train offers enhanced amenities, security, and surveillance systems, as well as features suited for emergencies. The seats are made up of fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) and were made by Tata Steel's Composites division.{{cite web | url=https://www.zeebiz.com/indian-railways/news-vande-bharat-express-features-route-speed-latest-news-update-details-features-tata-group-192097 | title=Vande Bharat Express to get aircraft-style passenger amenities - All details | date=August 2022 }}{{Cite news |url=https://www.lokmattimes.com/photos/national/indian-railways-vande-bharat-trains-to-getfirst-in-india-tata-steel-made-180-degrees-rotating-seats/ |title=Indian Railways: Vande Bharat trains to get 'First-in-India': Tata Steel-made 180 degrees rotating seats |date=1 August 2022 |access-date=18 April 2023 |work=Lokmat Times}}{{Cite web|url=https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/tata-steel-to-spend-3000-cr-on-seating-for-new-vande-bharat-trains/|title=TATA Steel to spend 3000 cr on seating for new Vande Bharat trains|first=Madhavi|last=Gaur|date=9 August 2022}} The new rolling stock features four emergency windows, disaster lights in all coaches in the event of lighting system failure, fire survival cables within door circuits, ventilation for three hours in the event that the air conditioner loses power, and four additional emergency push buttons per coach.{{cite web |date=20 August 2021 |title=Upgraded Vande Bharat trains with new features to be ready by 2022 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/upgraded-vande-bharat-trains-with-new-features-to-be-ready-by-2022-101629472505038.html |work=Hindustan Times}}{{cite web |date=20 August 2021 |title=New Vande Bharat Train Sets To Be Equipped For Emergency Evacuation |url=https://www.ndtv.com/business/vande-bharat-express-new-vande-bharat-train-sets-to-be-equipped-with-features-to-aid-emergency-evacuation-2515206 |publisher=NDTV}} The new coaches are also equipped with a centralised coach-monitoring system for all types of electricity and climate control, among other new additions. An official added that the new coaches would be provided with a bacteria-free air conditioning system and higher flood protection for electrical equipment to ensure reliability during monsoons up to {{cvt|650|mm}}.
On 24 September 2023, 9 new Vande Bharat Express trains were flagged off which include upgraded features for passenger comfort after feedback.{{Cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/9-vande-bharat-trains-roll-out-with-new-feature-after-passenger-feedback/articleshow/103905681.cms |title=Nine Vande Bharat trains unveiled: What are the new upgraded features |date=24 September 2023 |work=The Times of India}} These include improvements to seats, improvements to toilets and an improved aerosol-based fire detection and suppression system.
== Modified rakes ==
Several rakes have been modified to accommodate specific routes. The Mumbai CSMT–Sainagar Shirdi Vande Bharat Express and Mumbai CSMT–Solapur Vande Bharat Express are modified Vande Bharat trains that have additional parking brakes for stopping the train on a slope because they traverse sections of mountain passes. This feature is not available in other Vande Bharat trains.
The Ajmer–Delhi Cantt. Vande Bharat express is a modified Vande Bharat train that has high-rise pantographs as the New Delhi-Jaipur route has a higher catenary for accommodating double-stacked containers and Double Decker Express trains.{{Cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/why-vande-bharat-express-train-is-being-modified-for-delhi-jaipur-route/articleshow/98860108.cms |title=Why Vande Bharat Express train is being modified for Delhi-Jaipur route |last=Jain |first=Smriti |date=1 March 2023 |access-date=16 April 2023 |work=The Times of India}} It is the world's first semi-high-speed passenger train with high-rise pantographs.{{Cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/pm-narendra-modi-flags-off-rajasthans-first-vande-bharat-express-train-delhi-ajmer-jaipur-gurgaon/articleshow/99426168.cms |title=PM Narendra Modi flags off Delhi-Ajmer Vande Bharat Express |date=12 April 2023 |access-date=16 April 2023 |work=The Times of India |location=New Delhi}}
= Rake formation =
The rake formations of all the operational versions of the train are given below:{{cite web|url=https://rdso.indianrailways.gov.in/uploads/VBE_Trainset(V2)_Maintenance_Manual_Volume_II_Chapter1_Introduction_Draft(3).pdf|title=VBE Maintenance Manual Volume II|publisher=Indian Railways}}
;Abbreviations
{{colbegin|colwidth=18em}}
- DTC – Driving Trailer Coach
- NDTC – Non-Driving Trailer Coach
- MC – Motor Coach
- MC2 – Motor Coach with electrical change-over switch
- MC3 – 180° rotated MC2
- TC – Trailer Coach having Pantograph
- EC – Executive Chair Car (2x2 seats)
- CC – Economy Chair Car (3x2 seats)
{{colend}}
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center; font-size: small;"
|+ Rake formation of 1st generation 16-car Vande Bharat Express !Coach Sr. No. |1 |2 |3 |4 |5 |6 |7 |8 |9 |10 |11 |12 |13 |14 |15 |16 |
| Travel Class
| colspan="7" |CC | colspan="2" |EC | colspan="7" |CC |
|---|
| Power Configuration
|DTC |MC |TC |MC2 |NDTC |MC |TC |MC2 |NDTC |MC |TC |MC2 |MC3 |TC |MC |DTC |
| Basic Power Units
| colspan="4" |Unit 1 | colspan="4" |Unit 2 | colspan="4" |Unit 3 | colspan="4" |Unit 4 |
| Seating Capacity
|44 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |52 |52 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |44 |
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center; font-size: small;"
|+ Rake formation of the 2nd generation 16-car Vande Bharat Express !Coach Sr. No. |1 |2 |3 |4 |5 |6 |7 |8 |9 |10 |11 |12 |13 |14 |15 |16 |
| Travel Class
| colspan="7" |CC | colspan="2" |EC | colspan="7" |CC |
|---|
| Power Configuration
|DTC |MC |TC |MC2 |MC |TC |MC2 |NDTC |NDTC |MC2 |TC |MC |MC2 |TC |MC |DTC |
| Basic Power Units
| colspan="4" |Unit 1 | colspan="4" |Unit 2 | colspan="4" |Unit 3 | colspan="4" |Unit 4 |
| Seating Capacity
|44 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |52 |52 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |44 |
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center; font-size: small;"
|+ Rake formation of the 2nd generation 8-car Vande Bharat Express !Coach Sr. No. |1 |2 |3 |4 |5 |6 |7 |8 |
| Travel Class
| colspan="2" |CC |EC | colspan="5" |CC |
|---|
| Power Configuration
|DTC |MC |TC |MC2 |MC2 |TC |MC |DTC |
| Basic Power Units
| colspan="4" |Unit 1 | colspan="4" |Unit 2 |
| Seating Capacity
|44 |78 |52 |78 |78 |78 |78 |44 |
| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center; font-size: small;"
|+ Rake formation of 2nd generation 20-car Vande Bharat Express !Coach Sr. No. |1 |2 |3 |4 |5 |6 |7 |8 |9 |10 |11 |12 |13 |14 |15 |16 |17 |18 |19 |20 |
| Travel Class
| colspan="7" |CC | colspan="2" |EC | colspan="11" |CC |
|---|
| Power Configuration
|DTC |MC |TC |MC2 |MC |TC |MC2 |NDTC |NDTC |MC2 |TC |MC |MC2 |TC |TC |MC |MC2 |TC |MC |DTC |
| Basic Power Units
| colspan="4" |Unit 1 | colspan="4" |Unit 2 | colspan="4" |Unit 3 | colspan="4" |Unit 4 | colspan="4" |Unit 5 |
| Seating Capacity
|44 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |52 |52 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |78 |44 |
Future
The following EMU trainsets which are influenced by the Vande Bharat are currently in the preliminary stages of design and will be introduced in the near future.
= Sleeper trainsets =
{{Main|Vande Bharat (sleeper trainset)}}
File:Vande_Bharat_sleeper_trainset_prototype_at_BEML.jpeg ]]
The sleeper EMU trainsets are being built with sleeper coaches for long-distance travel. They will have three classes: 1A, 2A and 3A. The train is expected to have a maximum speed of {{Cvt|220|km/h}} and a design life of 35 years.{{cite web | url=https://zeenews.india.com/railways/vande-bharat-express-to-soon-get-220-kmph-top-speed-indian-railways-working-on-new-trains-2615998.html | title=Upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper to Get 220 KMPH Top Speed, Indian Railways Working on New Trains }}{{cite web | url=https://infra.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/railways/sleeper-version-of-vande-bharat-train-will-be-designed-to-travel-at-220-km-per-hour-officials/97172720 | title=Sleeper version of Vande Bharat train will be designed to travel at 220 km per hour: Officials - ET Infra }}{{Cite web |author=Dipak K. Dash|date=27 April 2022 |title=Railways invites bids for 200 Vande Bharat trains with sleeper coaches for long-distance travel |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/railways-invites-bids-for-200-vande-bharat-trains-with-sleeper-coaches-for-long-distance-travel/articleshow/91133641.cms |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=The Times of India |language=en}} It is expected to be lighter, energy efficient as well as have better passenger amenities than the Vande Bharat.{{Cite web |title=Railways plans speedy roll-out of improved Vande Bharat fleet |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/railways-plans-speedy-roll-out-of-improved-vande-bharat-fleet |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Free Press Journal |language=en}} Half of the trainsets will have coaches made of steel, while the other half will have coaches made of aluminium with articulated bogies.{{Cite web |author=Dipak K. Dash|date=21 July 2022 |title=Railways floats tender to procure 100 Vande Bharat trains with a maximum design speed of 200 km/h |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/railways-floats-tender-to-procure-100-vande-bharat-trains-with-maximum-design-speed-of-200-kmph/articleshow/93013529.cms |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=The Times of India |language=en}}
Indian Railways invited bids to design and manufacture 200 trainsets in April 2022. The agency estimated that it would cost {{INRConvert|260|b|year=2022}}. The estimate includes the cost of upgrading infrastructure at either the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur or ICF where the train is planned to be manufactured.{{Cite web |title=Indian Railways extends deadline for bids for 200 third-generation Vande Bharat train sets to October |url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/business/indian-railways-extends-deadline-for-bids-for-200-third-generation-vande-bharat-train-sets-to-october-8792981.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Moneycontrol |date=7 July 2022 |language=en}} A further {{INRConvert|320|b|year=2022}} will be paid to the winning bidders over a 35-year period for maintenance. The bidders would be required to build the first prototype of this trainset within 24 months of being awarded the contract.{{Cite web |last=Livemint |date=1 December 2022 |title=BHEL bids for ₹58,000 cr deal to manufacture, maintain 200 Vande Bharat trains |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/bhel-bids-for-rs-58-000-crore-deal-to-maintain-200-vande-bharat-trains-11669900197456.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=mint |language=en}}
= Gati Shakti Train (Cargo Variant) =
It is also known as Freight EMU, supposedly to be used mainly to carry parcels of e-commerce companies, which is presently done via roadways. Indian Railways is planning to build 25 such trainsets to augment its freight market share in freight logistics from 28% to 40% by 2030 as a part of the government's "PM Gati Shakti" initiative.{{Cite news |last=Sharma |first=Shantanu Nandan |title=Railways eyeing lucrative ecommerce space, making Vande Bharat-like freight trains that can run at 160 kmph |work=The Economic Times |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/railways/railways-eyeing-lucrative-ecommerce-space-making-vande-bharat-like-freight-trains-that-can-run-at-160-kmph/articleshow/91224847.cms |access-date=2022-08-22}} The first prototype was expected to be developed in ICF by December 2022, but has been postponed.
= Tilting technology =
The tilting technology which aids the train in maintaining its speed on the curved sections is likely to be implemented in the future EMU trainsets which are planned to have a maximum speed of more than {{Cvt|200|km/h}}.{{Cite web |last=Surabhi |date=17 July 2022 |title=Railways floats fresh tender for 200 next generation Vande Bharat trains |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/railways-to-ramp-up-production-of-vande-bharat-trains/article65650715.ece |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=Business Line |language=en}} This will mark the first commercial deployment of such technology in India.{{Cite web |date=25 November 2022 |title=India to get 100 Vande Bharat trains with technology to tilt on turns by 2025 |url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/india-to-get-100-vande-bharat-trains-with-technology-to-tilt-on-turns-by-2025-11669381957660.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=mint |language=en}}{{Cite news |title=India to soon get tilting trains! |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel//india-to-soon-get-tilting-trains/articleshow/95849369.cms |access-date=5 December 2022 |newspaper=The Times of India |language=en}} The coaches are proposed to be made of a lightweight aluminium alloy and are expected to feature improved passenger amenities such as a 3-pin socket and USB power socket for every passenger, zero discharge toilet systems, and facilities to accommodate passengers travelling in wheelchairs. The trains will also have a cattle guard that can absorb collisions with animals up to {{Convert|600|kg|lb|abbr=off}} in weight and keep animals from being dragged under the train in the event of a collision.{{Cite web |date=18 July 2022 |title=Aluminium-Bodied, Speed of 200 Km/Hour: Govt Invites Tenders for 4th-Gen 200 Vande Bharat Trains|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/aluminium-bodied-speed-of-200-kmhour-govt-invites-tenders-for-4th-gen-200-vande-bharat-trains-5575543.html |access-date=5 December 2022 |website=News18 |language=en}}
= Other variants =
{{Further|Namo Bharat Rapid Rail}}
The ICF is developing variants for suburban and short-distance services. The suburban variant is a 15-coach train with a carrying capacity of 6,000 people. The short distance variant that will replace existing MEMU services, will have eight coaches with a carrying capacity of 2,400 people.{{cite news |title=ICF Chennai to manufacture prototype of Vande Bharat sleeper coach by end of this financial year |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/integral-coach-factory-chennai-to-manufacture-prototype-of-vande-bharat-sleeper-coach-train-to-be-ready-by-end-of-this-financial-year/article66896419.ece |access-date=27 December 2023 |work=The Hindu |date=26 May 2023 |language=en-IN |quote=The ICF is also designing a 15-coach Vande Bharat suburban train. The ICF is designing a prototype for the Vande Bharat Metro.}} As directed by the Indian Railway Board, the ICF will launch a model for Jammu and Kashmir in 2024.{{cite news |last1=Sivapriyan |first1=E |title=Integral Coach Factory to turn new Vande Bharat variants this fiscal |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/integral-coach-factory-to-turn-new-vande-bharat-variants-this-fiscal-2648770 |work=Deccan Herald |language=en |quote=To ensure that the Vande Bharat series is accessible and affordable to every section of the society, the ICF, as per directions from the Railway Board, will launch four new versions by next year, including an exclusive model for Jammu and Kashmir.}}
Export
After the train's inauguration, Indian Railways reportedly received queries of interest from some countries in Southeast Asia and South America.{{cite news |date=21 May 2019 |title=Train 18 for exports after domestic demand is met: Railway official |language=en |work=Mint |url=https://www.livemint.com/industry/infrastructure/train-18-for-exports-after-domestic-demand-is-met-railway-official-1558452102971.html |access-date=17 April 2022}} A board member of the Indian Railways stated that the train could be modified according to customer needs.{{cite news |last=Jain |first=Smriti |date=18 January 2019 |title=Train 18 sets to be exported! Indian Railways looks to enter $200 billion world market for trains |work=The Financial Express |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/infrastructure/railways/train-18-sets-to-be-exported-indian-railways-looks-to-enter-200-billion-world-market-for-trains/1448035/ |access-date=18 January 2019}}{{cite news |last=PTI |date=18 January 2019 |title=Many Countries Interested in Importing India's Train 18 Set: Railway Officials |publisher=NDTV |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/many-countries-interested-in-importing-indias-train-18-set-railway-officials-1979857 |access-date=18 January 2019}} A railways official stated in November 2022 that the Ministry of Railways were preparing a roadmap to begin exports of Vande Bharat trainsets by 2026. Exports would only begin after 475 trainsets are built for domestic use.{{Cite news |last=Bhargava |first=Yuthika |date=26 November 2022 |title=Railways plans to export Vande Bharat trains by 2025–26 |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/railways-plans-to-export-vande-bharat-trains-by-2025-26/article66183627.ece |access-date=5 December 2022 |issn=0971-751X}}
= Test track =
{{See also|List of railway test tracks}}
Indian Railways is constructing a {{Cvt|59|km}} long dedicated standard gauge track between Gudha and Thathana Mithri in the Jodhpur Division to conduct trial runs at speeds of up to {{Cvt|220|km/h}}. The track is expected to be completed by December 2025.{{Cite news |date=2024-05-04 |title=India’s first high-speed rly test track in Raj to be ready by 2025 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/indias-first-high-speed-railway-testing-track-in-rajasthan-to-be-ready-by-2025/articleshow/109828589.cms |access-date=2024-05-04 |work=Times of India}}
See also
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category-inline|Vande Bharat Express trains}}
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