India is considering adopting JR East's new "E10 Series" Shinkansen trains for its high-speed rail project, marking a potential symbol of Japan-India cooperation. This development was revealed on April 14 by sources familiar with bilateral relations.
The high-speed rail project aims to connect Ahmedabad and Mumbai in western India, spanning approximately 500 kilometers. The expected travel time is about two hours. Japan's Shinkansen technology is being utilized as a hallmark of partnership between the two nations.
The project officially broke ground in 2017, initially targeting a 2023 opening. However, opposition from residents over land acquisition has significantly delayed progress.
Meanwhile, JR East announced the start of development for the "E10 Series" in March 2025. As a next-generation Shinkansen following the E2 and E5 series, the E10 Series is designed with a top speed of 320 km/h. It incorporates technology and data derived from prototype test vehicles and is noted for its high level of safety. The new trains are expected to be completed in autumn 2027, with commercial service slated to begin in fiscal year 2030.