BEML unveils prototype of driverless metro train for Bengaluru’s Pink Line

Bengaluru:

BEML Limited on Thursday rolled out the prototype of its next-generation driverless metro trainset (5RS-DM), developed for Namma Metro’s Phase 2, 2A and 2B corridors.

The unveiling took place at the BEML Rail Complex, where Dr J. Ravishankar, IAS, Managing Director of BMRCL, formally flagged off the prototype for the Pink Line in the presence of BEML Chairman and Managing Director Shantanu Roy and senior officials from both organisations.

The dignitaries also witnessed a test run, marking a major milestone for the project.

Under the ₹3,177-crore contract, BEML will supply 318 standard-gauge metro cars for the city’s Pink Line and the Blue Line (Airport Line).

In all likelihood, BEML is expected to deliver about 5 train sets by June next year, which is sufficient to start the operations on the much-delayed Metro line on the Bannerghatta road.

All coaches are being designed, engineered, and manufactured at the company’s Bengaluru facility. The prototype rollout marks the beginning of a series of delivery milestones, with full-scale testing and commissioning to follow in line with BMRCL’s construction and operational timelines. BEML will also provide maintenance support for up to 15 years.

The new trainset is designed for Grade of Automation 4 (GoA4), enabling fully driverless operations through CBTC-based signalling. BEML said the project highlights its expanding role in India’s metro ecosystem and reinforces its capability to deliver self-reliant, world-class mobility systems under the Aatma Nirbhar Bharat vision.

Speaking at the event, BEML CMD Shantanu Roy said the launch represented “a significant milestone” in Bengaluru’s journey towards modern, reliable and efficient urban transit.

“We thank BMRCL for its continued trust in BEML’s metro capabilities as we work towards a truly futuristic metro ecosystem,” he said.

BMRCL MD Dr J. Ravishankar said the prototype demonstrated BEML’s commitment to enhancing the commuter experience on upcoming corridors, including the Pink Line (R6) and the ORR–Airport Line.

“This achievement marks a major step towards reducing congestion, lowering carbon emissions and improving quality of life in Bengaluru,” he said.

Key features of the new driverless trains

• Contemporary interiors and enhanced passenger comfort
• Extra-wide gangways for seamless movement
• USB charging ports, ergonomic seating, and improved accessibility
• Energy-efficient systems and advanced passenger information displays
• Compliance with global crashworthiness, fire safety and other international standards
• Compatibility with CBTC for fully automated operations

BEML recently secured an additional ₹414-crore order from BMRCL for six more driverless trainsets (36 cars) for the Yellow Line. In March 2025, the company won a ₹405-crore top-up order for 42 additional cars for Reach 6. With these expansions, the total supply for Bengaluru Metro has risen from 53 trainsets (318 cars) to 66 trainsets (396 cars).

BEML has previously supplied rolling stock for the Purple and Green Lines and remains the metro’s largest rolling stock partner.