The Indian Railways has seen a transformation over the past decade, and leading this change is the iconic Vande Bharat Express, formerly known as Train 18. Developed indigenously under the Indian Government’s Make in India initiative, this semi-high-speed intercity train is a bold symbol of innovation and engineering prowess.
At Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways in Pune, we celebrate such milestones through finely crafted scale models.
And now, we’re proud to showcase our latest marvel: a 1:100 scale model of the Vande Bharat Express, built with painstaking attention to detail and engineering passion. Here’s the story of both the real train and the miniature wonder that brings it to life on a smaller scale.
The Vande Bharat Express is India’s first semi-high-speed train, designed to provide fast, safe, and comfortable intercity travel. Officially launched on 15 February 2019, and originally known as Train 18, it was developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Perambur, Chennai.
It took just 18 months from concept to completion- a record timeline that speaks volumes about Indian innovation.
The train is capable of reaching speeds up to 200 km/h (120 mph), although it generally operates at speeds of 160 km/h due to track limitations. It features a sleek, aerodynamic exterior, a nose-tapered design that reduces air resistance and improves efficiency.
What makes it unique is the presence of a driver cabin at both ends, allowing for quick turnarounds without needing to reverse or switch locomotives.
Passenger experience on the Vande Bharat is unlike any other in India. With a total seating capacity of 1,128 passengers, the train consists of 16 coaches, including two executive chair cars and 14 regular chair cars.
The executive cars seat 52 passengers each and offer luxury-style amenities, while the rest accommodate 78 passengers per coach.
Each alternate coach is motorized, ensuring uniform power distribution. This smart engineering enables rapid acceleration and smooth deceleration, crucial for short intercity routes.
The coaches are interconnected through sealed gangways that not only enhance movement but also reduce noise and vibrations.
Additional features such as bio-vacuum toilets, rotating seats that align with travel direction, and a GPS-based Passenger Information System (GPIS) contribute to a modern, world-class travel experience.
A regenerative braking system further adds to energy efficiency, making it a green alternative to conventional trains.
The story of Train 18 is more than just an engineering feat- it’s a national triumph. Developed entirely in India, it stands as a testament to the capabilities of the country’s manufacturing sector.
The cost of producing a Vande Bharat train set is 40% less than importing similar models from Europe, proving that world-class quality can come at a fraction of the global cost when innovation meets intent.
With continuous improvements and new variants like Vande Bharat 2.0 and planned sleeper versions, the initiative has gone beyond just one train.
It’s now a growing fleet that connects key cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad with increased speed and efficiency.
At Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways, the newly added 1:100 scale model of the Vande Bharat Express is a stunning tribute to this engineering marvel.
Created by Soudamini Instruments, known for their work in precision modeling, the project took 4 to 6 months of rigorous design, prototyping, and craftsmanship.
A combination of acrylic, resin, ABS plastic, and other durable materials were used to replicate the train. The production process involved 3D drawing, 3D printing, laser cutting, injection moulding, and manual assembly.
Each coach, window, step, and even air-conditioning unit is recreated with meticulous detail.
The bogies, among the most complex components, each require 90 minutes of 3D printing, followed by hand finishing.
One of the smallest yet trickiest parts to handle is the horn mounted atop the train’s nose, made with surgical precision.
The tracks on which the model sits are made of extruded nickel-silver alloy, and they match the broad-gauge dimensions of Indian Railways (1676 mm or 5 feet 6 inches).
The result is not just a replica but an exact-to-scale engineering model that radiates realism.
What sets this model apart is the blend of technical accuracy and artistic finesse. It includes around 60 individual parts, each painted either by hand or with spray techniques to match the color tone and sheen of the original train.
The stickers and markings are custom-designed to reflect real-world detailing- right down to the pilot’s seat visible through the front window.
This model doesn’t just serve as a collector’s item or museum display- it educates, inspires, and fascinates. It’s a celebration of the train’s story, but also a demonstration of the precision and creativity required in miniature railway modeling.
Models like these do more than decorate a display case- they bring history and innovation into physical form. For railway lovers, students, and even transportation professionals, such models offer insights into design, materials, and operations. They spark curiosity and often serve as tools in education and heritage preservation.
The Vande Bharat model, in particular, is symbolic of how far Indian Railways has come– from steam engines of the past to sleek, high-speed electric trains of today. And by creating a model that captures every detail, we’re not just showcasing a train- we’re honoring a national achievement.
Located in the heart of Pune, Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways is a one-of-a-kind experience. Visitors of all ages can witness the magic of working miniature trains, stations, tunnels, and now, the new Vande Bharat scale model– our proudest addition yet.
Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, this model is bound to leave you in awe.
From the real-life success of Train 18 to the stunning 1:100 scale model now featured in our museum, the Vande Bharat Express represents the very best of Indian ambition, talent, and technology.
It’s not just a train- it’s a journey. And thanks to the dedication of model makers and visionaries, that journey can now be admired on an entirely new scale.
1. What is the top speed of the Vande Bharat Express?
The Vande Bharat Express is designed to run at a maximum speed of 200 km/h, though it typically operates at 160 km/h due to track limitations.
2. How many coaches does the Vande Bharat Express have?
It has 16 coaches in total, including 2 executive chair cars and 14 regular chair cars.
3. Where was the Vande Bharat train built?
The train was designed and manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Perambur, Chennai, under the Make in India initiative.
4. What materials were used to build the scale model at Joshi’s Museum?
The model is made from acrylic, resin, ABS, and nickel-silver alloy, and features over 60 individually crafted and assembled parts.
5. Where can I see the Vande Bharat scale model?
The 1:100 scale model is on display at Joshi’s Museum of Miniature Railways in Pune, Maharashtra.
