Vande Bharat sleeper train set to redefine long-distance travel with comfort and speed

Indian Railways is set to revolutionize long-distance train travel with the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set, an advanced addition to its rapidly growing fleet.

The first 16-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Train has successfully completed rigorous trials conducted by the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) on January 15, 2025, covering a 540-kilometer distance on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route, according to an official press release.

The Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, manufactured India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train on December 17, 2024. Within a fortnight, the train was brought to Kota division, where it underwent short-distance trials covering 30 to 40 kilometers over three consecutive days in early January.

During these tests, the train comfortably reached speeds of 180 km/h, demonstrating its capability for high-speed overnight journeys, the statement read.

Vande Bharat (Sleeper) testing at 180 kmph pic.twitter.com/ruVaR3NNOt

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) January 2, 2025

This marks a significant step in railway modernization, with Indian Railways aiming to provide passengers with a seamless and luxurious travel experience.

With its focus on comfort, speed, and cutting-edge technology, the Vande Bharat Sleeper train is expected to redefine long-haul train journeys in the coming years.

Scaling Up Production: The Road Ahead

Following the successful trials, Indian Railways has planned the production of nine more Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets between April and December 2025 to enhance efficiency and convenience for long-haul travelers.

To support this large-scale rollout, the railways has placed a major order for propulsion electrics for 50 rakes of 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets on December 17, 2024.

The order has been awarded to two leading Indian manufacturers, who will deliver the systems within a two-year timeframe.

The release further said that the full-scale production of the 24-car Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Sets is scheduled to begin in 2026-27, further boosting India's self-reliance in railway technology and setting new standards in rail travel.

Vande Bharat (Sleeper) Train dispatched from ICF Chennai for loaded simulation trial. pic.twitter.com/nyLLhzoLMP

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) December 18, 2024

Speed, Comfort & Luxury: A New Era of Rail Travel

These Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are designed with modern amenities to enhance passenger experience, including automatic doors, ultra-comfortable berths, onboard WiFi, and an aircraft-like design.

Indian passengers are already enjoying world-class travel on 136 Vande Bharat trains, which operate across the country for medium and short distances, offering reclining seats and a superior travel experience.

The sleeper variant will further improve long-distance travel by providing a quieter, smoother, and more luxurious journey, equipped with advanced safety features, said railways.

The train has 16 coaches, divided into AC 1st Class, AC 2-Tier, and AC 3-Tier, with a total capacity of 1,128 passengers. Built under the Make in India initiative, it features crash buffers, deformation tubes, a fire barrier wall, cushioned berths, and automatic doors, ensuring safety and comfort.

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🚄 Long-Distance Travel:
Designed for 160 kmph speed, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Express features 16 coaches, including 11 AC three-tier, four AC two-tier and one AC first-class, offering a total of 823 passenger berths. pic.twitter.com/MweJLh5Esz

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) September 2, 2024

Final Approvals Before Operations

Before India's first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train begins operations, the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) will issue a final certificate after analyzing trial results.

The Railway Safety Commissioner will also evaluate the train at its maximum speed to ensure it meets all safety and operational standards.

As Indian Railways moves forward with this transformative project, the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Set stands as a testament to the nation’s vision of modern, efficient, and passenger-friendly transportation.