Hirect wins Indian Railways MEMU order, debuts 6,000 HP propulsion system
- Secures development order for four MEMU trainsets from Modern Coach Factory
- Programme covers integrated propulsion systems including TCMS over 24 months
- Debuting in-house 6,000 HP electric locomotive propulsion system at InnoTrans 2026
- System qualified after successful trial in WAG-9 locomotive under severe duty cycles

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
Hirect has secured a development order for complete propulsion systems for four Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) trainsets from Modern Coach Factory (MCF), Indian Railways.
The 24-month programme covers traction transformers, traction motors and the fully integrated propulsion system including the Train Control and Management System (TCMS). This marks the company’s first full MEMU trainset system order.
InnoTrans 2026 Debut
Hirect will debut its new 6,000 HP electric locomotive propulsion system at InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin, held from September 22 to 25. The system was designed, engineered and manufactured entirely in-house, including liquid-cooled IGBT traction inverters/converters and proprietary control software.
The propulsion system completed its acceptance regime this year after successfully hauling loaded freight in a WAG-9 locomotive under India’s severe duty cycles and demanding thermal operating environment.
Strategic Positioning
For nearly seven decades, Hirect has grown alongside Indian Railways, evolving from a market leader in traction transformers to a power electronics company shipping high-power IGBT converters, auxiliary power supplies, SiC battery chargers, traction motors and HVAC systems.
The qualification of the 6,000 HP system opens one of the world’s largest locomotive markets to Hirect’s complete propulsion package. It also establishes a modular subsystem platform for new-build, retrofit and hybrid locomotive programmes internationally.
What the Numbers Show
The shift from component supply to integrated systems is evident in the scope of the new contract. While Hirect historically supplied discrete components like traction transformers and motors, the MCF order mandates a fully integrated solution including the Train Control and Management System (TCMS). This indicates a strategic move up the value chain towards total powertrain responsibility, leveraging its in-house capability across dielectric coatings, copper wire, and control software.
Leadership Commentary
"These achievements validate the technology roadmap we have been building for years," said Suramya Nevatia, Chairman & Managing Director of Hirect.
He noted that powering Indian Railways locomotives with an in-house designed propulsion system demonstrates the strength of the company’s R&D. "The products and technologies we have created under the guidance of one of the world’s most demanding railways are ready to serve the burgeoning worldwide demand for high-power electronics and propulsion systems," he added.
Decarbonisation Focus
Decarbonisation remains central to Hirect’s industry role. The company provides propulsion and power conversion equipment enabling the transition from diesel to hybrid, electric and alternative-energy traction, including hydrogen.
At InnoTrans 2026, Hirect will display its high-power converters, power module range, traction motor and associated electronic products. Technical specialists will be available at hall 9, stand 621, Messe Berlin, to discuss electrified, hybrid and decarbonised rail programmes.
Historical Stock Returns for Hirect
| 1 Day | 5 Days | 1 Month | 6 Months | 1 Year | 5 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| -1.85% | -7.71% | -5.84% | +65.14% | +42.24% | +1,024.68% |
How might Hirect's shift to integrated propulsion systems impact its gross margins compared to its historical component-only supply model?
What specific international markets or railway operators are likely to be Hirect's primary targets for the new 6,000 HP locomotive propulsion system post-InnoTrans 2026?
Could the successful qualification of the SiC battery chargers and hybrid technologies position Hirect as a key supplier for India's upcoming hydrogen and battery-electric rail initiatives?


































