Ahmedabad: The BEML–Medha Servo Drives consortium is likely to supply 16 additional high-speed trainsets for the Mumbai–Ahmedabad bullet train corridor, according to a report by Moneycontrol.

As per the report, the BEML-Medha consortium submitted its bid to the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Ltd (NHSRCL) on March 19 for the design and manufacture of the trainsets. The bid followed a single-vendor tender issued by NHSRCL in February to state-run BEML for the high-speed rail project between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

It is noteworthy that the consortium had earlier received a contract worth ₹867 crore from the Integral Coach Factory in 2024 to design, manufacture and commission two prototype eight-car high-speed trainsets. These trains are designed for a top speed of 280 kmph, with an operational speed of 250 kmph. The report noted that a follow-on order for 16 additional trainsets had been expected.

It is learnt that the consortium has quoted roughly ₹250 crore per trainset for the new order, including a seven-year maintenance contract. Of this, BEML’s share for the carbody and interiors is estimated at about ₹150 crore per train, while Medha Servo Drives’ share for propulsion equipment, bogies and the train control and management system is around ₹100 crore. The final cost may be revised after negotiations.

Furthermore, the reports indicate that the first two prototype trains are expected to have about 50% indigenous content, which may increase as more domestic suppliers join the supply chain. German rail systems manufacturer Knorr-Bremse is setting up a facility near Chennai to locally produce braking systems, doors, HVAC units and sanitary modules, which is expected to boost localisation.

The report also noted that rollout of the first prototype is now expected around March 2027, instead of the earlier December 2026 timeline, as manufacturing has yet to begin.

It is noteworthy that Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said the Mumbai–Ahmedabad high-speed rail project will be commissioned in stages beginning in 2027, with the Surat–Bilimora section expected to open first in August 2027. DeshGujarat