B28 Bullet Train: Key Specifications
The B28 trainset has been designed for a maximum test speed of 280 km/h and a planned operational speed of approximately 249 km/h. Its reported configuration includes eight coaches, four motor coaches and four trailer coaches, with capacity for around 557 passengers.
Structural Testing and Manufacturing Progress
One of the important stages in the train’s development is its structural squeeze test. The test applies controlled forces to assess the car body’s strength, rigidity and dimensional stability. The structural assessment is an important step before further integration and testing.
BEML is manufacturing the train at its Bengaluru facility, with Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, involved in the indigenous trainset programme. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited the facility on November 1, 2026, to review the manufacturing and testing progress.
Designed for Indian Passengers
Reported passenger-focused features include ergonomic seating, wide windows, LED lighting, charging points, bio-digester toilets, multilingual passenger information displays and accessibility provisions for passengers with disabilities.
Technology and Energy Efficiency
The train is expected to use a 25 kV AC traction system and regenerative braking, which can recover some energy during braking. Its aerodynamic profile has been developed with the help of computational fluid dynamics simulations to study airflow and reduce resistance.
When Will the Indigenous Bullet Train Run?
Further integration, climate testing and track trials are expected before passenger operations. Reports following the November 1 visit have indicated a 2027 target for testing and an August 2027 target for the first operational section of the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor. These are targets and remain subject to testing, infrastructure readiness and safety approvals.
A Step Towards Domestic High-Speed Rail Technology
The B28 programme represents an effort to strengthen India's domestic capabilities in high-speed train design, manufacturing and testing. Its performance during upcoming trials will be an important milestone in determining the readiness of the indigenous trainset for passenger service.
