Thai Railways Tests Refurbished Kiha 40/48 Trains on Bangkok–Ayutthaya Route
On October 24, 2025, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) carried out a full-scale trial run of its newly refurbished Kiha 40/48 diesel railcars, traveling from the Makkasan Railway Factory to Ayutthaya Station. The test, simulating real operating conditions, marks a significant milestone in the lead-up to public service expected to begin in early 2026.
According to SRT Governor Veeris Ammarapala, this trial followed earlier engineering tests conducted in August, including both static and dynamic assessments. The latest trial evaluated a wide range of performance metrics under international standard IEC 61133, covering:
• Acceleration and braking distance
• Fuel efficiency
• Brake force and wheel temperature
• Interior noise levels and vibration comfort
• Lighting and temperature inside the carriage
• Modernized toilet system functionality
• Air-conditioning and onboard public address system performance
The test train made scheduled stops at key stations including Don Mueang, Rangsit, Thammasat University (Rangsit), and Ayutthaya, simulating a real commuter run. These stops allowed SRT to assess the vehicle’s performance along the existing infrastructure and gauge its readiness for regular service.
Refurbishment Details and Future Plans
Six Kiha 40/48 cars, originally sourced from Japan, are being refurbished at SRT’s Makkasan facility. Four units are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025, with the remaining two finalized in early 2026.
The initial route will operate between Bangkok (Krung Thep Aphiwat Station) and Ayutthaya, with stops at Don Mueang and Rangsit. Timetables will be designed to suit both peak and off-peak travel, improving commuter flexibility and service efficiency.
Looking ahead, SRT plans to refurbish additional Kiha units for future service expansions, including routes such as Bangkok–Chachoengsao and Bangkok–Nakhon Pathom. These routes aim to offer passengers a more convenient, comfortable, and modern travel experience.
The initiative reflects SRT’s commitment to revitalizing regional train travel in Thailand by combining proven rolling stock with updated technology and passenger comforts.
Source: ทีมพีอาร์การรถไฟแห่งประเทศไทย