Indian Railways has taken another major step toward redefining long-distance train travel in India. Kinet Railway Solutions, an Indo-Russian joint venture, unveiled the design of the First AC coach of the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper train at the International Railway Equipment Exhibition (IREE) 2025 in New Delhi. This marks a new chapter in India’s ambitious plan to combine speed, comfort, and luxury on overnight journeys.
Modern Design with Indian Touch
The full-scale mock-up of the First AC coach was the centre of attraction at IREE 2025. The design reflects a modern and minimalistic aesthetic, blending neutral shades with metallic finishes to create a calm and spacious ambience. Each berth is equipped with reading lights, USB charging ports, and personalized storage compartments to enhance passenger comfort.
What makes the design special is the attention to detail; even the space under the stairway to the upper berth doubles as a small bedside shelf for books or gadgets. According to Evgeny Maslov, the project’s chief designer, the aim was to create an “airy environment that feels accessible to everyone.”
Project Director Nishunk Garg announced that the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur is being upgraded for full-scale production, which is expected to begin by late 2025. The first prototype of the Vande Bharat Sleeper is projected to roll out by June 2026.
Building 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains
Kinet Railway Solutions has been assigned to manufacture 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, totalling 1,920 coaches, for Indian Railways. The project aims to elevate overnight train travel in India by introducing advanced design, superior comfort, and improved energy efficiency.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are being developed for long-distance routes, providing passengers with a blend of luxury and technology. With enhanced noise insulation, smart lighting, and ergonomic seating, the trains promise to rival existing premium services like the Rajdhani Express.
Viral 180 Kmph Stability Test
The Vande Bharat Sleeper recently made waves online after a video from its 180 kmph trial run went viral. The clip, shared by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, showed a glass of water placed on a table beside a smartphone, both remaining perfectly steady even at top speed. Social media users hailed it as proof of India’s growing engineering excellence and stability in high-speed rail design.
A New Era for Indian Railways
The launch of the Vande Bharat Sleeper project signals Indian Railways’ intent to bring world-class innovation to overnight train journeys. With features designed for comfort, cultural integration, and technological precision, the upcoming trains will redefine how Indians experience long-distance travel.
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