Vande Bharat Express: India’s First Engine-less Luxury Train
Vande Bharat Express: India’s First Engine-less Luxury Train
The revolutionary high-speed train offers unmatched luxury and comfort on Indian tracks.
The Vande Bharat Express, formerly known as Train 18, is India’s first engine-less high-speed train, designed and developed entirely by Indian Railways. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 15, 2019, the train offers a luxurious travel experience, surpassing even the iconic Rajdhani Express.
Vande Bharat Express now functions on over 40 routes across India. Along with this, the special trains have been running to serve the demands of festive seasons as well as winter travel. Every now and then, a few train routes are also extended to serve a larger network and cover more stations
This electric multiple-unit chair car trainset achieved a trial speed of 183 km/h (114 mph) but operates at a maximum speed of 160 km/h (99 mph) due to track limitations.
As of October, 2024, there are 66 Vande Bharat Express trains in service in India. These trains include:
• 17 sixteen-car services
• 4 twenty-car services
• 45 eight-car services
The Vande Bharat Express boasts cutting-edge features and modern amenities. Each coach is equipped with automatic plug doors, ergonomic reclining seats, and revolving chairs in the executive class. Passengers enjoy enhanced comfort with a smooth ride and state-of-the-art facilities such as:
- – Mini Kitchenettes: Includes a hot case, bottle cooler, deep freezer and boiler for hot water, allowing passengers to enjoy snacks and beverages during their journey.
- – Safety Enhancements: Anti-climbing devices and CCTV cameras in every coach ensure passenger security and a safer travel experience.
The new saffron and grey livery introduced in July 2023 adds a vibrant touch to the trains, which also feature 25 key upgrades announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
With its luxurious interiors, advanced safety measures, and modern design, the Vande Bharat Express represents a significant leap in Indian Railways’ mission to provide world-class rail travel for passengers across the nation.
