The model name stands for broad gauge (W), AC Current (A), Passenger traffic (P) locomotive, 7th generation (7).

The WAP-7 is the most successful locomotives of Indian Railways[peacock prose] serving passenger trains since its introduction in 1999.

It is a passenger variant of the WAG-9 freight locomotive with a modified gear ratio to pull lighter loads at higher speeds.

Indian Railways plans to use the WAP-7HS for Shatabdi, Rajdhani, and Duronto express trains.

A main feature of Majority locomotives of this class is that they eliminate the need to have separate End on Generation (EOG) sets or DG (Diesel Generator) sets for supplying power to the train resulting in significant savings on maintenance and running costs.