Renfe AVE High-Speed Transition: Madrid-Barcelona

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Introduction

Starting September 8, Renfe will operate all high-speed services between Madrid and Barcelona using its AVE brand, replacing Avlo trains while maintaining service frequencies, schedules, and competitive pricing.

Service Transition

Renfe announced that starting September 8, the Avlo services currently operating on the Madrid–Barcelona corridor will be replaced by AVE trains. This follows the company’s decision to exclusively use AVE S103 units on this line.

Passengers with existing Avlo tickets for travel after September 7 will be automatically rebooked on AVE services with the same journey conditions. Customers who purchased a seat selection supplement will receive a full refund.

Technical Clarification

Renfe issued a statement denying reports of technical issues with the S102 train model. The operator stated that no anomalies have been detected in the S102 fleet, which continues to operate with full safety guarantees on other corridors.

The S102 series was used temporarily on the Madrid–Barcelona Avlo services during August. However, its withdrawal is unrelated to any technical problems. Renfe emphasized that the exclusive use of the S103 fleet on the Madrid–Barcelona route reflects efficiency and operational considerations and a strategy to better adapt to corporate travelers’ needs while unifying the commercial offering.

Enhanced AVE Services

Renfe highlighted that AVE services align with the profile of business travelers who frequently use the Madrid–Barcelona corridor.

Compared to Avlo, the AVE product provides enhanced comfort with more spacious seating, additional legroom, and greater overall service quality. The change also reintroduces amenities previously unavailable on Avlo, such as an onboard cafeteria, catering services, and a designated “quiet coach.”

The company further highlighted the availability of Premium services on AVE trains, which include access to exclusive lounges, enhanced onboard catering options, and the “Executive Lounge” coach.

Service Continuity

Despite the withdrawal of Avlo, Renfe confirmed that the number of daily frequencies and timetables will remain unchanged.

This ensures continuity for the Madrid–Barcelona route, which remains one of the busiest high-speed rail corridors in Europe.

Conclusion

Renfe will replace Avlo services with AVE trains on the Madrid–Barcelona route, starting September 8. Existing Avlo tickets will be rebooked on AVE services. The change is due to operational considerations and a focus on corporate travelers. Daily frequencies and timetables will remain unchanged.

Company Summary

Renfe: A Spanish state-owned railway company.

Technology

AVE S103: A high-speed train unit used by Renfe.

AVE S102: A high-speed train model used by Renfe.

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