BHEL Begins Supply of Traction Converters for Vande Bharat Project
Filing Summary
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has commenced the supply of semi-high-speed underslung traction converters for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project. The supply is part of a consortium effort with TRSL. The initial set of converters was dispatched from BHEL’s Bengaluru plant on January 8, 2026. The converters, designed for operational speeds up to 160 kmph, will be sent to Kolkata for final assembly. BHEL’s Bhopal and Jhansi units are also involved in manufacturing other propulsion equipment for the project.
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has started supplying semi-high-speed underslung traction converters for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project. This supply is part of a consortium project led by BHEL in collaboration with TRSL. The initial dispatch took place on January 8, 2026, from BHEL’s Bengaluru plant.
The traction converters are designed for operational speeds of up to 160 kmph, with a design speed of 176 kmph. These converters are equipped with state-of-the-art IGBT-based technology and feature an underslung design, which places the propulsion equipment beneath the train car. This design choice increases onboard space for passenger amenities and enhances the train’s payload capacity.
The converters are being sent to Kolkata for the final assembly of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains. In addition to the converters, other major propulsion equipment such as traction motors and transformers are being developed and manufactured by BHEL’s Bhopal and Jhansi units.
The commencement of supply marks BHEL’s entry into the semi-high-speed propulsion segment. The company has focused on indigenizing complex technologies for locomotives and distributed power trains, contributing to India’s self-reliance in the transportation and rolling stock sectors.
TRSL, a partner in this consortium, is involved in the development and manufacturing of railway components and systems. The collaboration with BHEL is part of its strategic focus on enhancing capabilities in the rail transportation sector.
BHEL is a leading manufacturing enterprise in the energy and infrastructure sectors. The company provides indigenous solutions in power, transmission, transportation, defense, and industry. BHEL continues to focus on indigenizing technologies to support India’s infrastructure development and self-reliance goals.