SNCF awards €3 billion train order for next generation TGVs

1423
Photo: Alstom.
Photo: Alstom.
Listen to this article

Alstom has received a €3 billion order from SNCF for 100 next-generation Avelia Horizon very high-speed trains for its TGV service.

Each trainset, made up of two power cars and double-deck passenger cars, will cost around €25 million, with additional funds set aside for further orders and services.

SNCF paid around €30 million per trainset for its previous generation, the TGV Duplex.

Total acquisition costs are 20 per cent lower than that of the previous generation of TGV train, according to Alstom, whose team has been working with SNCF on the new rolling stock for two years.

Each train has a modular interior and will be able to accommodate up to 740 passengers.

A predictive regime will see maintenance costs reduced be 30 per cent when compared to those currently recorded by SNCF and the new trains will consume 20 per cent less energy than existing TGVs as a result of a more aerodynamic design and regenerative braking.


Like this story? Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with rail industry news


According to SNCF, the order has been possible by adjusting the business model of its high-speed TGV service to win back customers, boost productivity and control production costs, and by its decision to stabilise track access fees.

Voyages SNCF managing director Rachel Picard said: “This new TGV is the standard-bearer for French high-speed rail. And what a feat: a technological breakthrough that meets all our goals for industrial performance, and a source of pride that has generated an enthusiastic response from everyone who has worked on it.”

Alstom said the new generation of very high-speed trains address SNCF’s ambitious goals in terms of competitiveness of the rail sector and profitability.

CEO Henri Poupart-Lafarge added: “This order is the successful fruit of the collaborative work of SNCF and Alstom.

“Alstom’s Avelia Horizon solution meets the technological, economic and competitiveness challenges of SNCF.”

Delivery is expected to run from 2023 to 2033, generating 4,000 jobs.

SNCF Mobilités’ board of directors approved the order at a meeting on July 26.


Read more: Plans revealed for £10bn high-speed railway to connect Britain’s busiest airports, HS1 and HS2