Interview Insights:
Rail Analysis: As BEML Ltd. makes its debut at InnoTrans, what unique opportunities does InnoTrans 2024 in Berlin present for your company? What are your key objectives and expectations for the event?
Mr. Shantanu Roy: InnoTrans 2024 Berlin presents a unique platform for BEML to showcase its innovative capabilities and explore new growth avenues in the global rail and metro segment. As a premier international event focused on rail transport technology, it provides us the opportunity to engage with global industry leaders, policymakers, and potential partners. For BEML, this is a prime moment to demonstrate our advanced solutions in rolling stock, including our driverless metro trains and indigenous rail technologies developed under the “Made in India” initiative.
We are keen to highlight our recent projects, such as the Vande Bharat Sleeper train and our driverless metro cars for Mumbai Metro, both of which exemplify our technological prowess and commitment to innovation. Additionally, InnoTrans enables us to pursue strategic partnerships and collaborations with international companies.
By engaging with the global rail community at InnoTrans, we aim to reinforce BEML’s position as a leading provider of rail solutions and accelerate our entry into new international markets, while also staying at the forefront of cutting-edge technological advancements in the rail industry.
Rail Analysis: What is the market potential for BEML in the rail and metro sector, both in India and globally? How does BEML aim to capture a larger market share?
Mr. Shantanu Roy: The rail and metro sector is brimming with growth opportunities, both domestically and internationally. In India, a host of metro projects are in progress, including expansions in Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, Bhubaneswar, Patna, Nagpur, Pune, Thane, Kochi, and Hyderabad.
These initiatives represent a tremendous business potential for the future. As a key player in India’s rolling stock industry, BEML is strategically positioned to meet this increasing demand, supported by our strong infrastructure and a highly indigenized supply chain developed under “Made in India” initiative.
To stay ahead of market needs, BEML is set to scale up its production capabilities to cater to both domestic and international demand. With our vast experience and proven expertise, we are confident of expanding our market share in India over the coming years. Globally, the urban rail transit market is on a steady rise, with growing interest in sustainable transport solutions. BEML is well-positioned to seize these opportunities by forming partnerships with CPSEs and international industry leaders.
Our focus areas include ASEAN nations, the Middle East, and South America, where we are actively exploring new business prospects. A notable step in our international strategy is our partnership with Malaysia’s SMH Rail, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This collaboration aims to meet the increasing demand for rail and metro solutions in regions like Malaysia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, enhancing urban mobility across these regions. With over six decades of experience, BEML continues to harness cutting-edge technologies to tap into global market opportunities, ensuring that we lead in innovation and growth within the rail and metro sectors.
Rail Analysis: Could you share insights on the newly launched Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset, which is being hailed as world-class? What are its standout features, and how will it transform the passenger experience?
Mr. Shantanu Roy: In a landmark achievement for Indian Railways and BEML, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Railways in India, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, inaugurated India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset at our Bangalore rail facility. This marks a proud moment for BEML, as the trainset is fully indigenously designed and manufactured. Additionally, the foundation stone for a new 9.2-acre Hangar facility was laid, aimed at boosting exports of both standard and broad-gauge rolling stock, further solidifying BEMLs global footprint.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Trainset is constructed using high-grade Austenitic stainless steel and integrates advanced crashworthiness features, including specially engineered crash buffers and couplers that significantly enhance passenger safety.
It complies with the most stringent international fire safety standards, including EN45545 HL3, ensuring top-tier protection for travelers From a passenger perspective, this train is truly a game-changer. Designed with luxury and practicality in mind, its interiors match the quality of leading European trains. With world-class amenities, the train ushers in a new era of comfort, safety, and efficiency for Indian Railways.
Key innovations include integrated reading lights with USB ports, public announcement and visual information systems, in-train display panels, security cameras for added safety, modular pantries, and custom berths and restrooms tailored for differently-abled passengers. A unique highlight is the 1st AC car, which features shower facilities with hot water, a first in Indian rail travel.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train is set to transform long-distance rail travel in India. Its cutting- edge technology, superior comfort, and enhanced safety features will redefine how passengers experience long-haul journeys, elevating rail travel to an unprecedented standard. This project is a testament to BEML’s commitment to innovation and excellence, positioning us at the forefront of the rail industry.
Rail Analysis: BEML has established itself as a leader in metro train manufacturing. Can you elaborate on your recent delivery of metro cars to the Mumbai Metro and the inauguration of the new facility for the Bangalore Metro? What impact will these milestones have on urban transportation?
Mr. Shantanu Roy: We are honored that the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Government of India, recently flagged off a new driverless MRS-1 Metro trainset from our Bangalore plant, marking a significant milestone for our Metro business division. This trainset is the 55th delivered to the Mumbai Metro Rail Metropolitan Authority, destined for operation on Lines 2 and 7.
We have secured the order amidst stiff global competition for the design, manufacture, supply, testing, commissioning, and training of 96 trainsets (6-car trainsets) of standard gauge Metro cars. Our team is proud to contribute to the nation’s infrastructure development and is committed to excellence and innovation in all our endeavors.
BEML is the first Indian rolling stock manufacturer to design, develop, manufacture, and supply driverless trains. We take immense pride in supplying these state-of-the-art driverless trains to the prestigious Mumbai Metro Line 2 and Line 7. During the design stage, we ensured that the Metro train is optimized for maximum passenger comfort, safety, and energy efficiency, meeting stringent global standards. The 6-car trainset has a capacity of carrying about 2,306 passengers, with seating for 298 passengers.
We have recently inaugurated the prototype manufacturing of driverless metro trainsets 5RS-DM Project dedicated to fulfilling the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation’ s (BMRCL) project for Lines 2 and 6, including the ambitious Bangalore Airport Line. The inauguration marks a significant milestone in BEML’s contribution to urban mobility solutions. BEML secured this prestigious order for 53 trainsets during August 2023, amidst stiff global competition.
The project, valued at approximately INR 3,177 crores, encompasses the design, manufacture, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of the trainsets, as well as comprehensive maintenance services for up to 15 years under the Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase 2, 2A, and 2B. By combining a commitment to innovation with strategic collaborations, BEML is well- positioned to remain a leader in the rolling stock and transportation industry, providing cutting- edge solutions that define the future of rail transportation.
Rail Analysis: Innovation is crucial in maintaining a competitive edge, especially in the rapidly evolving transportation industry. How does BEML foster a culture of innovation to stay ahead in the rolling stock and metro sectors?
Mr. Shantanu Roy: At BEML, innovation is the driving force behind our growth and success. To stay ahead of the curve, we have set up dedicated teams like the Futuristic Product Innovation and Incubation Centre and the Corporate Technology Planning and Alliance Management group, which focus on nurturing and advancing innovation across our operations.
We’re working with leading international design consultants on projects like the Vande Bharat Sleeper
coaches, and are exploring partnerships wit global companies to develop aluminium coaches, aligning with the changing demands of the railway sector.
Internally, we place a strong emphasis on fostering an innovative culture among our employees. We offer continuous development opportunities, encourage cross-functional learning, and hold regular ideation sessions to spark creative thinking.
This approach has led to several patents in the rail and metro segments, many of which are moving toward commercialization. We are actively developing a specialized talent pool dedicated to research and development by recruiting top graduates from leading engineering institutions.
Our goal is to attract the brightest and most innovative minds who can contribute fresh perspectives and drive forward-thinking advancements. By focusing on emerging talent, we aim to infuse our R&D efforts with cutting- edge ideas and technological insights that align with both our current needs and future aspirations.
A notable strategic initiative is ourrecent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to develop an indigenous Train Control Management System (i-TCMS) for metro trains. Historically, we have relied on foreign suppliers for such critical components. By collaborating with indigenized propulsion suppliers, we aim to ensure long-term service support and optimize costs. Additionally, we are exploring long-term contracts with suppliers to cover comprehensive maintenance requirements for more than 15 years.
Rail Analysis: As BEML aims to broaden its growth prospects and establish itself as a global industry leader, which new sectors or domains is the company currently exploring? How are you identifying and evaluating these emerging opportunities to ensure they align with your strategic goals?
Mr. Shantanu Roy: At BEML, our growth strategy is centred around venturing into emerging sectors and industries that offer transformative opportunities. As part of our forward-looking agenda, we recognize the immense potential in the Marine and Naval sector, given the evolving global landscape of trade and security.
We are committed to expanding our footprint in this domain by developing advanced maritime solutions to cater to the growing demand for naval defense and commercial shipping systems. In the transportation sector, BEML is set to make significant strides with the upcoming production of India’ s first Vande Bharat Sleeper trains, scheduled for launch by the end of 2024.
Building on this momentum, we are targeting the high-speed rail sector, where we aim to revolutionize the passenger experience through cutting-edge design, technology, and enhanced efficiency. Our vision is to set new benchmarks in comfort and performance, further solidifying our leadership in transportation. Beyond high-speed rail, we are exploring opportunities in the development of Medium Speed EMUs, Light Rail Systems, and maintenance and track equipment.
These sectors offer significant potential for diversification and growth, aligning with our commitment to delivering world-class transportation solutions. By investing in these areas, we are unlocking new revenue streams and positioning ourselves as pioneers in the global market. Our ambitions extend to the Aerospace sector, where our longstanding collaboration with ISRO has opened up vast possibilities.
With the aerospace industry experiencing rapid advancements, especially in space exploration and satellite technology, we see tremendous potential for growth and innovation. By strengthening our capabilities in this area, we aim to tap into lucrative opportunities that will drive substantial revenue growth.
The rise of unmanned ground and aerial vehicles presents another exciting frontier for BEML. Through strategic investments in research and development, we are developing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving demands of these markets, positioning ourselves as leaders in this high-tech space.
Moreover, the increasing global focus on sustainability aligns with our efforts in producing Electric Drive Dump Trucks, Excavators, and Bull-Dozers. The demand for high-end electric vehicles is growing rapidly, and we are leveraging this trend to reduce our carbon footprint while meeting the expectations of modern consumers and industries. We are also exploring the integration of AI and robotics-enabled systems within our operations.
These technologies hold immense potential to improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability across our business units. By embracing AI-driven innovations, we aim to ensure long-term growth and maintain our competitive edge in the global market. Through these diverse initiatives, BEML is committed to broadening its horizons, driving innovation, and establishing itself as a global leader in the industry.
Images credit: BEML Limited
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