Hirect Limited, formerly known as Hind Rectifiers Limited, has secured its first development order for the Vande Metro (Namo Bharat) trainset from the Rail Coach Factory (RCF), Kapurthala, marking a major milestone in the company’s expansion into next-generation railway technologies. The order strengthens Hirect’s position in India’s rapidly evolving railway sector and highlights its growing capabilities in developing advanced propulsion solutions for modern rolling stock.
Valued at approximately ₹60 crore, the contract covers the design, development, manufacture, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of an advanced IGBT-based three-phase propulsion system for the Vande Metro trainset. The project also includes the supply of traction transformers, traction motors, the Train Control and Management System (TCMS), and other critical equipment required for the train’s operation. In addition, Hirect will provide a comprehensive annual maintenance contract for the complete propulsion system.
The company expects to complete the project over a period of 21 months. The Vande Metro, also known as the Namo Bharat trainset, is a fully air-conditioned, self-propelled 16-coach train designed for intercity travel. The train is capable of operating on routes of up to 250 kilometres and has an operational speed of up to 130 kmph. It has been developed to offer faster, more comfortable and energy-efficient transportation for passengers while supporting the modernisation of India’s railway network.
The development order represents Hirect’s entry into one of Indian Railways’ most advanced train platforms and provides the company with an opportunity to demonstrate the performance, efficiency and reliability of its indigenously developed propulsion technologies. The project also reflects the increasing emphasis on locally developed railway technologies under India’s drive towards self-reliance in advanced manufacturing.
Hirect has built strong expertise over several decades in traction transformers and railway electrification systems. The latest order further expands the company’s capabilities into integrated propulsion systems and advanced trainset applications, enabling it to serve the growing demand for modern railway technologies.
Commenting on the achievement, Suramya Nevatia, Chairman and Managing Director of Hirect Limited, said the Vande Metro development order marks an important milestone in the company’s technology journey and validates its sustained investment in indigenous research and development. He said Hirect has established a strong foundation in traction transformers and railway electrification and is now expanding into advanced propulsion systems for next-generation trains. He added that as Indian Railways continues to modernise its fleet, the company remains committed to delivering reliable, high-value technologies developed and manufactured in India.
Established in 1958 in partnership with Westinghouse Brake & Signal, UK, Hirect Limited has evolved into a leading engineering and manufacturing company with more than six decades of industry experience. The company employs around 950 people across its manufacturing facilities in Nashik and Bhandup, Maharashtra, and exports its products to more than 30 countries. Hirect also maintains offices in India, Sweden and the United Arab Emirates.
The company designs and manufactures a broad range of power electronics and electrical equipment, including power converters, control electronics, transformers, rectifiers, inverters, motors and HVAC systems. Its products serve diverse sectors such as railways, defence, power, hydrogen, steel, cement, chemicals and paper industries. With the latest Vande Metro order, Hirect has further strengthened its role in supporting India’s railway modernisation programme through advanced, locally developed engineering solutions.
