WAP-5 class locomotives employ advanced control and propulsion technology and are capable to deliver 5400 hp on rail. The locomotive has all the hallmarks of a high-speed propulsion unit viz. light weight, fully suspended drive and disc brake. Though presently, it has been certified for 160 kmph operation, the locomotive has been designed to give a service speed of 200 kmph with test speed potential of 225 kmph. Since IR is currently facing severe competition in Premium Passenger business market from commercial airlines, sooner or later, IR will have to introduce medium high speed intercity Passenger Services. This emerging market will call for powerful Electric locos with 150 kmph plus speed potential to be deployed in the immediate future and WAP-5 is the locomotive of choice for this Passenger Services market of IR.