The design concept of a first-class sleeping coupe for Vande Bharat electric trains received a bronze award at the international A' Design Award 2026 in the transportation design category. The project was created for Indian Railways with the participation of Transmashholding engineers and designers.
The competition jury noted the project's passenger-centric approach, comfort for long-distance travel, and well-thought-out visual concept. The interior was first presented at the IREE railway exhibition in 2025.
The concept was developed as part of a large contract for the production and maintenance of 1920 Vande Bharat train carriages. The project is being implemented by Kinet Railway Solutions Limited, a joint venture between TMH and Indian RVNL. The total cost of the program is estimated at $6.5 billion.
TMH Chief Designer Evgeny Maslov noted that when working on the project, the team aimed to create a new level of comfort and a modern visual style for Indian Railways. According to him, the project utilized Russian experience in organizing long-distance railway travel, adapting it to the needs of Indian passengers.
The coupe is designed for long routes and is equipped with USB ports, individual lights, ergonomic ladders, additional storage space, and bottle holders. The interior design incorporates elements inspired by traditional Indian block printing art. Local artists worked on the decorative details.
