Vande Bharat Express 4.0 to Run on Ahmedabad–Mumbai Bullet Train Route: Here’s What We Know
In a major boost to India’s railway infrastructure, the country’s semi-high-speed rail journey is set to enter a new and advanced phase. Indian Railways is preparing to roll out the next-generation Vande Bharat Express 4.0, marking a significant technological upgrade in passenger train services.
According to an official update from the Ministry of Railways, the Vande Bharat version 4.0 is scheduled to be launched in 2027. Notably, the advanced train is expected to operate on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai bullet train corridor, one of India’s most ambitious high-speed rail projects.
What Makes Vande Bharat Express 4.0 Special?
The Vande Bharat 4.0 is being positioned as a major milestone in the growth story of Indian Railways. Once operational, it is set to become the fastest train in the country, redefining long-distance passenger travel with cutting-edge technology, enhanced safety systems, and superior performance.
Ahmedabad–Mumbai Route Chosen for High-Speed Operations
As per media reports, the first Vande Bharat Express 4.0 service—designed specifically for high-speed corridors—will run on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai route. This corridor is currently undergoing extensive upgrades with modern railway infrastructure to support higher speeds and ensure safe operations for next-generation trains.
The route plays a crucial role in Indian Railways’ long-term vision to introduce faster, more efficient, and globally competitive train services.
Vande Bharat Express 4.0: Expected Top Speed
Reports suggest that the Vande Bharat 4.0 is being engineered to run at speeds of up to 250 kmph on Indian tracks, a first for the national railway network. While initial operations may begin at lower speeds, the train’s design allows it to eventually operate on corridors capable of supporting speeds of up to 350 kmph.
The upgraded infrastructure along the Ahmedabad–Mumbai corridor is expected to play a key role in enabling the smooth rollout of these high-speed operations.
Advanced Safety and Security Features
In terms of safety, the Vande Bharat Express 4.0 will reportedly adhere to enhanced quality benchmarks and feature the advanced KAVACH 5.0 safety system. This next-generation collision avoidance technology is expected to significantly improve passenger safety and operational reliability.
Vande Bharat expansion: Indian Railways plans 800 trainsets by 2030; 4,500 by 2047
Vande Bharat express: Indian Railways has planned a massive expansion of Vande Bharat trainsets across its network. Being the country’s first indigenously designed and manufactured semi-high-speed trainset, it has been developed to improve connectivity and reduce travel time between cities. Currently, 164 Vande Bharat train services are operational in the country.
Vande Bharat production plan
The national transporter has planned to expand the Vande Bharat fleet to 800 trains by 2030 and 4,500 by 2047. “Vande Bharat is envisioned as a key pillar of India’s passenger rail modernisation in the coming decades. By 2047, the Vande Bharat fleet is envisioned to scale to around 4,500 trainsets, aligned with India’s long-term development goals.
In the medium term, the focus is on scaling up services, operating about 800 Vande Bharat trainsets by 2030, subject to infrastructure readiness and manufacturing capacity,” the Ministry of Railways said.
Vande Bharat cuisine menu
From December 2025, the national transporter has introduced regional cuisines on select Vande Bharat trains to further enhance passenger experience onboard. As for example, the onboard menus feature a wide range of regional specialities, including Maharashtra’s Kanda Poha and Masala Upma, Andhra Pradesh’s Kodi Kura, Gujarat’s Methi Thepla, Odisha’s Aloo Phulkopi, and West Bengal’s Kosha Paneer and Murgir Jhol. Southern delicacies such as Kerala meals with Appam and Palada Payasam, along with Bihar’s Champaran Paneer and Chicken.
Vande Bharat train features
- Semi-permanent jerk-free couplers and improved suspension systems contribute to better ride comfort, while regenerative braking systems enhance energy efficiency during operations.
- Provision for the indigenously developed Train Collision Avoidance System (KAVACH).
- Centrally controlled automatic plug doors and fully sealed wider gangways.
- Modern air-conditioning systems with indigenously developed UV-C lamp-based disinfection systems.
- CCTV cameras, emergency alarm push buttons, and passenger–crew talk-back units in all coaches
- Coach condition monitoring System (CCMS) display with remote monitoring.
- Bio-vacuum toilets and Divyangjan-friendly lavatories in the driving coaches at both ends of the train.
- GPS-based passenger information systems, ergonomically designed seating, and improved ride comfort contribute to an enhanced overall travel experience on Vande Bharat trains.
FAQs on Vande Bharat Express 4.0
What is Vande Bharat Express 4.0?
Vande Bharat Express 4.0 is the next-generation semi-high-speed train being developed by Indian Railways, featuring advanced technology, higher speeds, and enhanced safety systems.
When will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 be launched?
According to the Ministry of Railways, Vande Bharat Express 4.0 is scheduled to be launched in 2027.
Which route will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 operate on?
The first Vande Bharat Express 4.0 service is expected to run on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai bullet train corridor.
Why was the Ahmedabad–Mumbai route selected?
The Ahmedabad–Mumbai corridor is being upgraded with modern railway infrastructure to support high-speed operations, making it suitable for next-generation train services.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 run on the bullet train route?
Yes, media reports indicate that Vande Bharat Express 4.0 will operate on the Ahmedabad–Mumbai bullet train route designed for high-speed travel.
What makes Vande Bharat Express 4.0 special?
Vande Bharat Express 4.0 is expected to become India’s fastest train, offering cutting-edge technology, improved performance, and world-class passenger experience.
What is the top speed of Vande Bharat Express 4.0?
The train is being engineered to operate at speeds of up to 250 kmph on Indian tracks.
Can Vande Bharat Express 4.0 run faster in the future?
Yes, the train has been designed to eventually operate on corridors capable of supporting speeds of up to 350 kmph, subject to infrastructure readiness.
Will the train start operations at full speed immediately?
No, initial operations are expected to begin at lower speeds before gradually increasing as infrastructure and safety validations are completed.
What safety features will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 have?
The train will be equipped with the advanced KAVACH 5.0 safety system, which is a next-generation collision avoidance technology.
How does KAVACH 5.0 improve safety?
KAVACH 5.0 enhances operational safety by preventing collisions, monitoring train movements, and improving response during emergencies.
Is Vande Bharat Express 4.0 different from existing Vande Bharat trains?
Yes, version 4.0 represents a significant upgrade over earlier versions, with higher speed capability, improved safety standards, and advanced engineering.
How will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 benefit passengers?
Passengers will benefit from faster travel times, improved safety, better ride quality, and a more modern travel experience.
What does this project mean for Indian Railways?
The introduction of Vande Bharat Express 4.0 marks a major step toward high-speed rail operations and strengthens Indian Railways’ global competitiveness.
Is Vande Bharat Express 4.0 part of India’s long-term rail vision?
Yes, the project aligns with Indian Railways’ long-term vision to develop high-speed corridors and modernise passenger rail services across the country.
Is Vande Bharat Express 4.0 a bullet train?
No, Vande Bharat Express 4.0 is not a bullet train. It is a next-generation semi-high-speed train designed to run on upgraded high-speed corridors, including the Ahmedabad–Mumbai route.
How is Vande Bharat Express 4.0 different from the Mumbai–Ahmedabad bullet train?
The bullet train project is designed for dedicated high-speed tracks, while Vande Bharat Express 4.0 will operate on upgraded Indian Railway corridors capable of supporting high speeds.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 replace existing trains on the route?
Vande Bharat Express 4.0 is expected to complement existing services rather than replace them, offering a faster and more premium travel option.
Who is manufacturing Vande Bharat Express 4.0?
Vande Bharat Express trains are developed and manufactured under Indian Railways’ “Make in India” initiative.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 be fully indigenous?
Yes, the train is expected to be largely indigenous, following the same self-reliant manufacturing approach as earlier Vande Bharat models.
Will the Ahmedabad–Mumbai corridor require special upgrades?
Yes, the corridor is being upgraded with advanced signalling, track systems, and safety infrastructure to support high-speed train operations.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 have better ride comfort?
Yes, improved aerodynamics, upgraded suspension systems, and enhanced interiors are expected to provide smoother and more comfortable rides.
What kind of passengers will benefit most from Vande Bharat Express 4.0?
Business travellers, daily commuters on long routes, and passengers seeking faster intercity travel will benefit the most.
Will ticket prices be higher for Vande Bharat Express 4.0?
Ticket pricing has not been announced yet, but fares are expected to reflect the premium features and high-speed capability of the train.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 operate daily?
Operational frequency has not been officially confirmed. Details will be announced closer to the launch date.
How does Vande Bharat Express 4.0 support India’s infrastructure goals?
The project supports India’s vision of modern, efficient, and sustainable transportation by reducing travel time and improving connectivity.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 reduce travel time between Ahmedabad and Mumbai?
Yes, once fully operational, the train is expected to significantly cut travel time between Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
Is Vande Bharat Express 4.0 environmentally friendly?
Yes, like earlier Vande Bharat trains, it is expected to be energy-efficient and environmentally friendly compared to conventional trains.
Will Vande Bharat Express 4.0 be expanded to other routes?
While the Ahmedabad–Mumbai corridor is expected to be the first, similar high-speed corridors may be considered in the future.
