BHEL Begins Supply of Traction Converters for Vande Bharat Sleeper

14 Jan 2026 CW Team

Bharat Heavy Electricals has recently commenced the supply of semi-high-speed underslung traction converters for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project being executed by a BHEL-led consortium with TRSL. The milestone marks a significant step in the company’s ‘Make in India’ initiatives for the rail transportation sector.

A flag-off ceremony for the first set of traction converters was held at BHEL’s Bengaluru plant, signalling the start of deliveries for final assembly of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains in Kolkata. The converters have been specifically designed for semi-high-speed operations and represent BHEL’s strategic entry into this propulsion segment.

In addition to the traction converters, other critical propulsion equipment such as traction motors and transformers for the project have been developed and manufactured at BHEL’s Bhopal and Jhansi units, strengthening indigenous capabilities in advanced rail systems.

The underslung, IGBT-based traction converters are mounted beneath the train coaches, freeing up onboard space for passenger amenities and increasing payload capacity. The propulsion system supports operational speeds of up to 160 kmph, with a design speed of 176 kmph, and features high-efficiency power conversion with advanced thermal management for reliable long-distance overnight operations.

Through the indigenisation of complex propulsion technologies, BHEL continues to play a key role in advancing self-reliance in India’s transportation and rolling stock ecosystem.

Infrastructure Urban

14 Jan 2026

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