BEML rolls out First Driverless Metro Prototype for Bangalore Metro Phase 2 Expansion

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major boost to India’s urban mobility ecosystem, BEML Limited has rolled out the prototype of its state-of-the-art Driverless Metro Trainset (5RS-DM) for Bangalore Metro’s upcoming Phase-2, 2A and 2B corridors. The ceremonial rollout took place at the BEML Rail Complex and marks a significant milestone for the city’s expanding metro network.

The event was led by Dr. J. Ravishankar, IAS, Managing Director, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), in the presence of Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD, BEML Limited, and senior officials from both organisations. The dignitaries also witnessed a test run of the prototype, signalling the beginning of an intensive testing and certification phase before the trainset enters commercial service.

Under the ₹3,177-crore rolling stock contract secured through a competitive global tender, BEML will supply 318 Standard Gauge driverless metro cars for the Blue Line (Airport Line) and Pink Line. These trainsets are designed, engineered and manufactured entirely at BEML’s Bengaluru facility, reinforcing India’s capabilities in producing advanced GoA4 (Unattended Train Operation) metro systems.

The newly rolled-out prototype will now undergo comprehensive dynamic testing, subsystem validation and integration trials in line with BMRCL’s commissioning schedule. BEML will also provide up to 15 years of full-spectrum maintenance support, ensuring long-term reliability and cost-efficient operations.

The prototype rollout further strengthens BEML’s position as a key player in India’s rapidly growing metro sector. As metro networks across Indian cities expand, demand for driverless, digitally integrated and energy-efficient rolling stock continues to rise. BEML’s in-house capability—from concept and engineering to manufacturing and maintenance—aligns closely with the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

Commenting on this milestone, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said: “BEML’s driverless metro prototype for Bengaluru marks a defining moment in India’s metro evolution. With indigenous engineering, digital systems and GoA4 capabilities, this rollout showcases the progress of self-reliant urban transit manufacturing. It is encouraging to see Bengaluru Metro advancing toward world-class automation with fully home-grown technology.

As Bangalore Metro moves rapidly to expand its Phase-2 network—including critical links to the airport and emerging urban corridors—the introduction of BEML’s next-generation driverless trainsets is expected to significantly enhance capacity, commuter experience and operational efficiency. The successful prototype rollout sets the stage for accelerated testing and future deployment across the city’s high-growth corridors.