The First set of 'Train-18', an “engine-less” train that can run at 160 kmph and which could replace the Shatabdi Express, will be rolled out from the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) here by July end.
The first train-set consisting of 16 coaches can run either on the Delhi-Bhopal sector or the Chennai-Bengaluru sector by the end of this year or early next year after necessary trials and tests.
The indigenous train designed to run at a top speed of 160 kmph will be free of locomotive since traction motors will be fitted underneath each coach to render them self-propelled.
“We were planning to roll out the first train set by June, but due to some issues, we will be able to get them out of our factory by the end of July. I can assure you that the first set will be out of the ICF by August 15, 2018. The design has been done by our own engineers and we can proudly say that it is an indigenous train,” Sudhanshu Mani, General Manager of ICF, told DH.
But, he says it is for the Railway Board to take a call on the route on which the first train will run.
“I think they can run it on the Delhi-Bhopal sector where the tracks can withhold train running at a speed of 160 kmph. But, these trains can also be run on the Chennai-Bengaluru sector. It is for the Railway Board to decide,” he said.
After the train set is rolled out from ICF, it will be put to further tests and trials by Indian Railways before inducting it for passenger service.
'Train-18' that would replace the existing Shatabdi Express, which runs as day trains between major cities in respective regions, will be fully air-conditioned with second class and premium first class and will boast of automatic doors, vacuum toilets, comfortable doors, on-board infotainment and facilities for people with special needs.
“The train design is like the EMU, but the design is world-class and this train set does not need a locomotive. We got order for 2 train sets and both will be handed over to the Railway Board after which they would be put into passenger service. This is a watershed moment for ICF since it is a near indigenous train,” S P Vavre, Chief Design Engineer, Electrical Design and Development Centre, ICF, told DH.
Though tracks on the Chennai-Bengaluru sector are design only to run trains with a maximum speed of 120 kmph, the new “Train-18” on this route will reduce the travel time since the newly-designed trains will have better acceleration.
'Train 20'
Mani also said the ICF would also come out with “Train 20” that would gradually replace the long-distance Rajdhani trains by the end of 2020.
“Work on the next model will begin very soon and we will be able to meet the deadline,” Mani said.
Features of 'Train 18':
- GPS based Passenger Information System
- On Board Infotainment
- Speed of 160 kmph
- Quick Acceleration
- Underslung propulsion
- Vaccum toilets
- Comfortable interiors
- Automatic doors