Driverless 'Train 18' top speed breaches 180 kmph speed limit in test run

Chennai : India's first locomotive-less train, also known as 'Train 18', breached 180 kmph speed limit during a test run in Chennai. With the feat, it has become India's fastest train till date.

"Train 18 breached the 180 kmph speed limit in the Kota-Sawai Madhopur section. The major trials are now over with just some more remaining. Based on the reports fine tuning would be done if needed. As of now no major technical problem has cropped up," S. Mani, General Manager of Integral Coach Factory (ICF) that has manufactured the train, told news agency IANS.

"We expect Train 18 to commence its commercial run from January 2019. Normally the trials take three months. But now it is happening faster than expected," Mr Mani added.

According to reports, if Train 18 manages to pass all tests, it will replace current Shatabdi Express trains. 

Train 18 is capable of touching 200 kmph provided that the rest of Indian Railways' system such as tracks and signals permit, Mr Mani had said earlier. With 16 coaches, the train will have the same passenger carrying capacity as that of the Shatabdi Express. It is about 15-20 per cent energy efficient and leaves less carbon footprint.

Currently, the train is designed for seating purpose, however, Mr Mani said that Indian Railways may modify it into sleeper class coaches in coming days.