Indian Railways has begun technical trials of the country’s first Vande Bharat platform-based Freight EMU in Rajasthan’s Kota Division, with the prototype reaching a top speed of 145 kmph on its first day of testing. The trials are being carried out by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) on the Kota–Nagda–Sawai Madhopur high-speed corridor. The rake was developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, and will be assessed for suitability for regular operations.

The 16-coach prototype comprises 12 parcel coaches, two refrigerated vans for temperature-sensitive consignments and two non-driving trailer coaches. It carries a payload capacity of over 397 tonne (t) and an axle load exceeding 20 t, allowing the design to handle heavy cargo efficiently. The formation is fitted with advanced braking and propulsion systems to enable reliable movement of express parcels, e-commerce shipments and cold-chain freight.

Initial runs included tests at 120 kmph and 135 kmph on different sections before the unit reached 145 kmph during a return journey to Kota. The month-long programme will include at least two round trips each day on the route and will expose the rake to a range of operating and speed conditions. The trials are expected to improve the movement of parcels, e-commerce shipments and temperature-sensitive cargo across the country.

Engineers will evaluate oscillation at different speeds, braking performance, traction and ride quality along with signal and telecom interfaces and door operation. Onboard electrical equipment will be tested in both loaded and unloaded states to measure performance under varied scenarios. The comprehensive testing regime aims to validate safety and reliability parameters before clearance for scheduled service.

The introduction of a Vande Bharat Freight EMU is intended to shorten transit times for high-value and time-sensitive consignments and to strengthen cold-chain logistics. If cleared, the design could be deployed on key routes to offer faster and more dependable freight services.