By Kavita Mistry 
India’s ambitious Vande Bharat Sleeper train has hit a new milestone in speed and performance testing. The second rake of this next-generation train successfully achieved a top speed of 180 kmph during a trial run conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organization (RDSO) in the Kota Division of the West Central Railway zone.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper is being developed by BEML (Bharat Earth Movers Limited) using Integral Coach Factory (ICF) technology, designed to combine luxury, safety, and speed for long-distance overnight journeys.
Second Rake Undergoes High-Speed Testing
The ongoing high-speed trials began on November 2 and will continue till November 17, covering the Sawai Madhopur–Kota–Nagda section. This follows an earlier round of tests on the Mahoba–Khajuraho route.
The 16-coach rake is built for semi-high-speed travel, and the trial runs are testing the train’s:
- Technical efficiency
- Braking performance
- Ride stability
- Vibration control
- Electrical and mechanical reliability
The RDSO Test Directorate is conducting these trials to ensure the train meets the standards for high-speed passenger operations under real-world conditions.
Simulating Real Passenger Load
To replicate real operational performance, the rake was tested under full passenger load conditions. The 16-coach rake, weighing about 800 tons, was supplemented with an additional 108 tons of iron dust canisters, bringing the total load to 908 tons.
This approach ensures that all systems — from traction and braking to vibration control — are validated under actual operating stress.
How the Train Achieved 180 kmph
During the trial, the train underwent a Long Confirmatory Run (LCR) over a 50 km stretch between Rohalkhurd and Laban stations, clocking the maximum speed of 180 kmph.
Crucial safety tests, including oscillation tests and wet track emergency braking trials, were successfully completed. These are designed to test the train’s high-speed stability and braking efficiency even under adverse conditions.
The railways noted that the modified coach design offers improved stability and comfort, ensuring passengers experience smooth and quiet travel even at top speeds.
A Step Toward Long-Distance High-Speed Comfort
Unlike existing Vande Bharat Express trains with chair cars, the Vande Bharat Sleeper will allow passengers to travel comfortably on longer overnight routes. Once the trials conclude successfully, Indian Railways plans to induct these trains on key intercity routes connecting metros and major tier-2 cities.
The project represents India’s move toward indigenously developed high-speed luxury travel, matching global standards in efficiency, comfort, and design.