BENGALURU: Public sector company Bharat Earth Movers Ltd on Tuesday rolled out the prototype of its state-of-the-art driverless metro trainset (5RS-DM), developed for the upcoming corridors of BMRCL Phase 2, 2A and 2B.
The prototype for the pink line was formally rolled out by Dr J Ravishankar, MD, BMRCL, in the presence of Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Ltd, along with senior leadership from both organisations. They also witnessed the test run of the train at the BEML Rail Complex, marking a major milestone in the project’s progress.
Under the contract, BEML will supply 318 standard gauge metro cars, designed, engineered and manufactured at its Bengaluru facility for Blue line (Airport line) and Pink line. The trainsets will undergo testing and commissioning in line with BMRCL’s implementation timeline, followed by comprehensive maintenance support for up to 15 years. This rollout marks a significant step toward the execution of the Rs 3,177-crore contract, a press release said.
The newly rolled-out prototype reflects BEML’s expanding contribution to India’s metro ecosystem, especially in the domain of driverless (GoA4) urban transit systems. All design and engineering activities have been executed by BEML’s in-house teams, demonstrating the organisation’s capability to deliver world-class, self-reliant mobility solutions for major urban transport projects, the release said.
Speaking on the occasion, BEML CMD Shantanu Roy said, “The unveiling of this driverless metro prototype marks yet another significant milestone in BEML’s journey toward delivering next-generation mobility solutions for India’s growing cities. Bengaluru is expanding rapidly, and reliable, efficient, and modern transit systems are essential to sustaining this growth. We sincerely thank BMRCL’s management for their continued support and for placing their trust in BEML’s metro capabilities as we work toward a truly futuristic metro ecosystem”.
Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, BMRCL MD Dr J Ravishankar said, “The rollout of this first prototype marks a commitment by BEML to supply state-of-the-art trainsets which will enhance commuting experience. This is a milestone towards fulfilling the aspirations of Metro commuters traveling on the upcoming R6 line and the ORR Airport line. I congratulate all the teams involved in this achievement and look forward to continued cooperation as we progress towards successful commissioning of the metro corridors which support reduction in traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, contributing to the city’s economic growth and quality of life”.
Key Features of the New Driverless Trainset:
• Modern, contemporary interiors for enhanced passenger comfort
• Energy-efficient systems with upgraded passenger information features
• Extra Wide gangways for seamless passenger movement between coaches
• USB charging ports, ergonomic seating, and improved accessibility provisions
• Compliance with advanced fire safety, crashworthiness, and international safety standards
• Compatibility with CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) for fully driverless operations
The rollout of the prototype marks the beginning of the delivery milestones for the project, with serial production set to proceed in alignment with agreed timelines. With this rollout, BEML continues its steadfast support to Bengaluru’s rapidly expanding metro network, contributing to a smoother, safer, and more efficient commute for the city’s growing population. The prototype underscores BEML’s commitment to advancing transformative, self-reliant urban mobility solutions under the spirit of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat.
Recently, BEML has secured additional order worth Rs 414 crore from Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). Under this top-up order, BEML will supply six additional driverless metro trainsets (36 cars) for the Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase 2 (Reach 5, yellow line).
During March 2025, BEML also secured the additional order worth Rs 405 crore for 42 additional cars for Reach 6 of Bengalur Metro. With this, total supply has increased from 53 trainsets (318 cars) to 66 trainsets (396 cars). It is to be noted that BEML is the largest rolling stock supplier to Bengaluru Metro and in the past has supplied to the Green line and Purple line, the release added.
