BEML Rolls Out Prototype of New Driverless Metro Trainset for BMRCL’s Phase-2 Network

Bengaluru: BEML Limited today rolled out the prototype of its state-of-the-art Driverless Metro Trainset (5RS-DM), developed for the upcoming corridors of Bengaluru Metro’s Phase 2, 2A, and 2B networks. The prototype for the Pink Line was formally unveiled by Dr. J. Ravishankar, IAS, Managing Director, BMRCL, in the presence of Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Ltd., and senior leadership from both organisations. The dignitaries also witnessed a test run at the BEML Rail Complex, marking a key milestone in the project’s execution.

Under this prestigious contract, BEML will supply 318 standard-gauge metro cars, designed, engineered, and manufactured at its Bengaluru facility for the Blue Line (Airport line) and Pink Line. The trainsets will undergo extensive testing and commissioning as per BMRCL’s implementation schedule, followed by up to 15 years of comprehensive maintenance support. The rollout marks major progress on the ₹3,177-crore contract awarded to BEML through a competitive global bidding process.

The new prototype demonstrates BEML’s expanding capabilities in India’s metro ecosystem, particularly in the domain of driverless (GoA4) urban transit systems. All engineering and design work has been executed entirely in-house, underscoring BEML’s growing strength in delivering world-class, self-reliant mobility solutions.

Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Ltd., said, “The unveiling of this driverless metro prototype marks another significant milestone in BEML’s journey toward delivering next-generation mobility solutions for India’s growing cities. Bengaluru is expanding rapidly, and modern, efficient transit systems are essential to sustaining this growth. We thank BMRCL for its continued trust in BEML’s metro capabilities as we work together to build a truly futuristic metro ecosystem.”

Dr. J. Ravishankar, IAS, MD, BMRCL, said, “The rollout of this first prototype reflects BEML’s commitment to supplying state-of-the-art trainsets that will enhance commuter experience. This is a milestone toward fulfilling the aspirations of metro users on the upcoming R6 and ORR Airport lines. I congratulate all teams involved and look forward to continued cooperation as we progress toward commissioning these corridors, easing congestion, lowering emissions, and improving Bengaluru’s overall quality of life.”

Key Features of the New Driverless Trainset

• Contemporary interiors with enhanced passenger comfort
• Energy-efficient systems and upgraded passenger information features
• Extra-wide gangways for seamless movement between coaches
• USB charging ports, ergonomic seating, and improved accessibility
• Compliance with advanced fire-safety and crashworthiness norms
• Fully compatible with CBTC (Communication-Based Train Control) for driverless operations

The rollout initiates the delivery milestones for this large-scale project, with serial production set to proceed as per the agreed timeline. With this achievement, BEML reinforces its long-standing support to Bengaluru’s expanding metro network, helping build a smoother, safer, and more efficient commute for the city’s growing population. The prototype also reflects BEML’s commitment to self-reliant, transformative urban mobility under the vision of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat.

Recently, BEML secured an additional ₹414-crore order from BMRCL to supply six more driverless trainsets (36 cars) for Phase 2 (Reach 5, Yellow Line). Earlier, in March 2025, BEML received another ₹405-crore order for 42 additional cars for Reach 6. With these expansions, total supplies will rise from 53 trainsets (318 cars) to 66 trainsets (396 cars). BEML remains the largest rolling-stock supplier to Bengaluru Metro, having earlier supplied trains for both the Green and Purple Lines.