Japan is set to provide India with E5 and E3 series Shinkansen trains free of cost for use as inspection vehicles on the upcoming Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor. Scheduled for delivery in early 2026, these trains will be equipped with specialized systems to collect data on conditions like high temperatures and dust, supporting future development of next-generation E10 trains in India.
Japan’s Interim Shinkansen Offer Eases India’s High-Speed Rail Dilemma
Originally, the E5 series was considered for passenger services on the new line. However, due to high costs and delays, India began leaning towards using domestically produced train sets. To resolve the impasse, Japan proposed supplying E5 and E3 series trains for inspection and introducing E10 trains later, which India has tentatively accepted.
The 500-kilometer Mumbai-Ahmedabad line, backed by Japan’s renowned Shinkansen technology, is scheduled to begin partial operations by August 2027. However, the E10 trains—intended for full deployment—are not expected to arrive by then. Until their arrival, India plans to use modified, semi-high-speed trains made domestically.
Japan Strengthens Rail Ties with India Through Strategic Support and Investment
Japan sees strategic value in having its train cars in use when the rail line opens. The inspection trains will help assess performance and contribute to local manufacturing of E10 series trains in the future. A new framework for low-interest yen loans is being developed to fund the E10 train introduction. Japan already finances about 80% of the project’s estimated ¥1.8 trillion cost through such loans, though expenses are projected to rise further.
Japan previously provided a 0 series Shinkansen test train to Taiwan during the construction of its high-speed rail. Similarly, this gesture toward India highlights Japan’s commitment to expanding the global footprint of its high-speed rail technology, reinforcing bilateral ties ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected summit visit to Japan.
Summary:
Japan will provide India with E5 and E3 Shinkansen trains free of cost for inspection on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail line. This strategic move supports future E10 train deployment, deepens bilateral ties, and ensures Japanese technology presence as India prepares for partial rail operations by 2027 with domestic alternatives.
