1 / 7As part of a strategic initiative to support testing and development of India’s first bullet train project, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, Japan will provide India with two Shinkansen train sets — the E5 and E3 series — free of cost, the Japan Times reported. (Image: Reuters)
2 / 7Scheduled for delivery in early 2026, the E5 and E3 trains will be specially fitted with inspection equipment, which will gather critical operational data in India’s challenging environment, marked by high temperatures and dust — conditions very different from Japan’s, the Business Standard reported. (Image: Reuters)
3 / 7Shinkansen Technology | The E5 and E3 are both part of Japan’s renowned Shinkansen, or bullet train, family — globally recognised for speed, safety, and reliability. The E5 series, introduced by East Japan Railway (JR East) in 2011, can travel up to 320 km/h and was initially selected as the model for India’s passenger services. The E3 series, while slightly older, is well-suited for mini-Shinkansen routes and showcases Japan’s innovation in compact high-speed travel. (Image: Reuters)
4 / 7The next-generation Shinkansen: E10 | While India initially planned to use E5 trains for passenger service, but delays and rising costs prompted a shift to the more advanced E10 model. Data from the E5 and E3 trains will support development of the E10, also known as Alfa-X, a next-gen Shinkansen capable of 400 km/h, expected by the early 2030s. However, since it won’t be ready by the corridor’s partial opening in August 2027, the E5 and E3 will serve as crucial interim solutions. (Image: Reuters)
5 / 7Importance of Shinkansen Technology for India | India’s use of Shinkansen models goes beyond just operational trials. It marks the country’s first hands-on experience with Japan’s cutting-edge high-speed rail technology, paving the way for the future integration of more advanced models. (Image: Reuters)
6 / 7Catalyst for Indian Rail Transformation | More than just fast trains, the Shinkansen represents a transformation of the Indian Railways – how rail systems are designed and operated. India’s adaptation of this model symbolises a leap in safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort. The trains are being modified to suit Indian conditions, such as expanded luggage space and weather resistance, reflecting a broader vision to localise advanced infrastructure for long-term sustainability. (Image: Reuters)
7 / 7Funding | The bullet train project is primarily financed by a 50-year, low-interest loan (0.1%) from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), covering 80% of the costs. Japan has previously shared its Shinkansen technology abroad—Taiwan, for instance, received a first-generation train for testing during its high-speed rail development. The support extended to India continues this legacy. (Image: Reuters)
