Purpose
The trains will be used as track and overhead wire inspection vehicles for the high-speed rail line currently under construction between Mumbai and Ahmedabad (approximately 500 km) in western India. Delivery is scheduled for early 2026.
Background & Intent
India aims to partially open the high-speed line by August 2027, but the next-generation Shinkansen “E10 series”, intended for official operation, will not be ready in time.
Therefore, Japan will transfer the E5 and E3 series trains ahead of schedule to showcase “Japanese Shinkansen” running at the time of opening. These trains will also help gather operational data under India’s unique environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and dust, which will support local production of the future E10 series.
Change in India’s Rolling Stock Policy
Originally, the E5 series was planned as the operating train. However, due to high costs and delivery delays, the Indian side began favoring modified versions of their domestically produced semi-high-speed trains.
In response, Japan proposed the free transfer of E5 and E3 sets at the end of last year. India has largely accepted the offer.
Future Outlook
The new “E10 series” is scheduled to be introduced in the early 2030s as the official operating fleet.
The Japanese government also plans to establish a new yen loan framework in conjunction with Indian Prime Minister Modi's future visit to Japan.
A similar precedent exists: a 0 series Shinkansen was previously donated to Taiwan High Speed Rail as a clearance measurement train.
Additional Notes on the Donated Trains
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E5 series: Maximum speed of 320 km/h, operated on the Tohoku Shinkansen.
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E3 series: Used on the Akita Shinkansen (a “mini-Shinkansen”) and has been utilized for inspection tasks in Japan.
Since the donated trains are intended for inspection use, they are not expected to carry passengers.
