Russia has proposed its Ivolga FG high-speed train as a potential solution for India’s growing high-speed rail requirements, with Russian rolling stock manufacturer Transmashholding (TMH) offering to jointly develop and manufacture the train in India.
The Ivolga FG has a design speed of 360 kmph and is being positioned as a possible high-speed rail option for the Indian market. TMH has also proposed joint research and development in high-speed railway technology, drawing on Russian engineering capabilities and scientific expertise.
TMH Expands Its Presence in India
TMH already has an established partnership in India through Kinet Railway Solutions, a joint venture between TMH and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). The partnership is involved in the manufacturing and maintenance of Vande Bharat sleeper trains for Indian Railways.
Under the project, 120 Vande Bharat sleeper trainsets, each consisting of 16 coaches, are being manufactured at the Marathwada Rail Coach Factory in Latur, Maharashtra.
The existing partnership gives TMH an established manufacturing base and experience in India’s railway sector, which could support its latest proposal for developing a separate high-speed train for the country.
Vande Bharat Sleeper Prototype Expected by March 2027
Manufacturing of the first Vande Bharat sleeper prototype is currently underway at the upgraded Marathwada Rail Coach Factory.
According to RVNL, the first prototype is expected to roll out by March 2027, within the current financial year. The project is part of India’s broader efforts to expand modern and faster passenger rail services.
The Ivolga FG proposal comes as TMH seeks to build on its existing cooperation with Indian Railways while offering its high-speed rail technology for a possible future network in India. If taken forward, the proposal could involve local development and manufacturing alongside technology and research collaboration between Indian and Russian partners.
