80 kmph, 557 passengers! India's homegrown bullet train has some big surprises inside

Speed revolution

India's first indigenously designed bullet train is taking shape at BEML's Bengaluru facility, promising a new era of high-speed rail travel. Built for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor, the train is designed to reach a maximum testing speed of 280 kmph, with an operational speed of 249 kmph. Developed by Indian engineers for the country's climatic conditions, the eight-coach train marks a major step in domestic high-speed rail manufacturing.

Passenger surprise

Imagine travelling at nearly 250 kmph with spacious seats, panoramic windows and onboard entertainment. India's upcoming indigenous bullet train will accommodate 557 passengers across eight coaches, including seven standard-class cars with 3x2 seating and one executive-class car with 2x2 seating. The 202-metre-long train will also feature dedicated seating for passengers with reduced mobility. But its biggest surprises could be the technology and comfort features hidden inside.

Luxury upgrade

India's new bullet train promises more than just speed. Passengers can expect high-speed Wi-Fi-based infotainment, individual charging outlets, multilingual LCD displays and generous luggage storage. A dual-unit climate control system in each coach will maintain comfortable temperatures, while sound insulation will help minimise noise. From seamless movement between coaches to accessible toilets and Braille signage, the train is being designed to make high-speed journeys more convenient.

Engineering secrets

What does it take to make a train race at 280 kmph while keeping passengers comfortable? Engineers at BEML are incorporating an aerodynamic nose, advanced sound insulation and regenerative braking technology into India's indigenous bullet train. The braking system will recover energy during deceleration and feed it back into the electrical grid. Two eight-coach trains can also be coupled into a 16-coach formation, offering the possibility of carrying more passengers in future operations.