India's Locomotive Leap: Alstom Delivers 500th 'Make in India' Powerhouse

Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has successfully delivered its 500th fully India-made Prima T8 WAG12B electric locomotive to Indian Railways. The locomotive was flagged off from Alstom’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Madhepura, Bihar, in the presence of Indian Railways’ Chief Administrative Officer Manish Kumar and senior Alstom officials.

This achievement is part of a €3.5 billion contract under which Alstom is supplying 800 high-powered, double-section Prima T8 locomotives, each boasting 12,000 HP (9 MW) for freight operations. The WAG-12B locomotives can haul 6,000-tonne rakes at speeds of up to 120 km/h, significantly enhancing freight efficiency.

To ensure high availability and cost-effective maintenance, Alstom has established two ultramodern depots in Saharanpur and Nagpur, integrating predictive maintenance technologies. The Madhepura facility, developed under a joint venture with Indian Railways, is one of India’s largest greenfield railway plants, with an annual production capacity of 120 locomotives. With 90% localisation, these locomotives feature advanced IGBT-based propulsion technology, improving energy efficiency through regenerative braking.

"Our WAG12B electric locomotives, powered by cutting-edge technology and fully manufactured in India, enhance freight transportation with greater speed, efficiency, and reliability. The delivery of our 500th locomotive highlights our commitment to modernising India’s railway infrastructure and supporting economic growth," said Olivier Loison, Managing Director, Alstom India.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.