Indian Railways Introduce Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains with Advanced HVAC Innovation

A new chapter in Indian long-distance travel is unfolding as Indian Railways introduces the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, equipped with cutting-edge interlaced coil HVAC systems. This upgrade promises a more reliable and energy-efficient cooling experience for passengers, raising the bar for comfort and sustainability on overnight journeys.

The interlaced coil design ensures continuous cooling even in the event of partial system failures, thereby maintaining a consistent and comfortable environment for passengers. Unlike traditional systems that may experience uneven cooling or complete shutdowns when a component fails, the interlaced configuration offers redundancy, ensuring that cooling is maintained across the entire coach. This advancement enhances passenger comfort and aligns with Indian Railways’ commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability. Improved coil utilization in the interlaced system results in better part-load efficiency, reducing energy consumption and supporting the broader goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains have undergone testing to confirm their readiness for commercial operations. In January 2025, the Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) conducted extensive trial runs across various routes, including the Jhansi Division, Kota Division, and the Ahmedabad-Mumbai corridor. These 28-day trials assessed the trains’ performance, safety, and comfort levels. The trains demonstrated the capability to reach speeds of up to 180 kmph, highlighting their potential to reduce travel time on long-distance routes. The 16-coach configuration includes AC-3, AC-2, and First AC coaches, all equipped with advanced features and safety compliance measures.

Looking ahead, Indian Railways plans to introduce nine more Vande Bharat Sleeper trains by December 2025, with full-scale production of 24-car configurations expected to commence in 2026–27. These developments represent an investment in modernizing the country’s rail infrastructure, aiming to provide passengers with faster, safer, and more comfortable travel options. The integration of interlaced coil technology in these sleeper trains exemplifies Indian Railways’ dedication to innovation and passenger-focused solutions.