Thailand's first locally developed passenger rail coach has been handed over to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), marking a step towards putting home-grown rail technology into practical use and reducing reliance on imported coaches.
The prototype, developed under the Thai-Made Train project led by King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL), was officially delivered to the SRT for further testing before entering passenger service.
Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Minister Yodchanan Wongsawat, who witnessed the handover ceremony, said the project showed how research could be translated into practical innovation.
He said valuable research should address national needs, adding that the SRT's demand for new passenger coaches presented an opportunity to strengthen Thailand's rail industry.
If Thailand can manufacture passenger coaches domestically, it will reduce imports, create added value for local manufacturers and strengthen the country's industrial supply chain, he said.
Mr Yodchanan said the prototype brought together expertise in engineering, materials science, air-conditioning systems and Internet of Things (IoT) technology to improve maintenance efficiency and passenger services.
"The project could serve as a model not only for Thailand's rail industry but also for other manufacturing sectors. It shows how innovation can be put to use in the real world, driving development and long-term competitiveness," he said.
Prof Kittipong Kittayarak, chancellor of KMITL, said the handover marked the beginning, not the end, of cooperation between the university and the SRT.
He said the partnership would continue to develop skilled personnel, research and innovation.
SRT governor Anan Phonimdaeng said the agency would work with KMITL and partners to conduct safety and performance tests before introducing the coach on tourist routes of 200–500km.
