Japan to gift Shinkansen trains for India’s bullet train trials, ahead of new loan pact

One E5 and one E3 series train will arrive in early 2026, each retrofitted with inspection equipment to assess operational challenges unique to Indian conditions, such as high temperatures and dust.

The data gathered from these test runs will help fine-tune the corridor’s systems and pave the way for the introduction of next-generation E10 trains, which are expected to be produced in India starting in the early 2030s.

Until then, modified semi-high-speed trains made domestically are expected to run on the corridor.

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad route marks a milestone in India’s infrastructure development, supported by Japan’s renowned Shinkansen technology.

The project is being funded predominantly through low-interest yen loans from the Japanese government, which cover about 80% of total costs.

With rising expenses, both governments are working to finalise a fresh loan framework to support the introduction of E10 trains, likely to be discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Japan for a bilateral summit.

The donated Shinkansen trains represent Japan’s engineering excellence.

The E5 is known for its speed and streamlined design, while the E3 series balances efficiency and passenger comfort.

Their deployment in India will generate vital insights into the track conditions and overall performance of the corridor.

Construction of the high-speed rail corridor, led by the National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL), has been progressing steadily since November 2021. So far, bridges have been built across six rivers in Gujarat as part of the 24 total river crossings along the route.

Highlighting the project's transformative potential, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw had earlier noted, “The bullet train project has to be seen from the perspective of integrating economies… You can have breakfast in Surat, complete your work in Mumbai, and return with your family by night.”