Virgin Trains-Alstom Avelia Stream: High-Speed Rail Plans for London-Paris-Brussels

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Introduction

Virgin Trains has signed an exclusive deal with Alstom for 12 new Avelia Stream high-speed trains as part of its plan to launch cross-Channel services from London to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam, starting in 2030, subject to regulatory approval.

Virgin Trains’ Cross-Channel Plans

Virgin Trains has announced plans to compete with Eurostar on cross-Channel routes. The company has secured an exclusive agreement with Alstom for 12 Avelia Stream high-speed trains. These trains are designed to operate at speeds up to 300 km/h.

Financial and Operational Details

The project is estimated to require GBP 700 million in capital, with Virgin taking a 50% stake alongside institutional investors. Virgin has submitted a request to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to run services on HS1, the high-speed line that runs from London’s St Pancras International and through the Channel tunnel.

Technical Specifications and Challenges

The Alstom Avelia Stream trains feature tilting technology, flexible boarding, and are designed for improved energy efficiency. Each train can carry a mix of passenger configurations. Virgin’s project must also secure space at Temple Mills International Depot in East London. Furthermore, the company requires approval from the ORR to run services on High Speed 1 and through the Channel Tunnel.

Market Context and Competition

Eurostar has held a monopoly on Channel Tunnel passenger services since 1994. Following its 2023 merger with Thalys, Eurostar is targeting 50 new trains and doubled passenger capacity by 2030, with future services planned to Frankfurt, Geneva and other European cities. Other operators, including Trenitalia, Evolyn, and Gemini, have expressed interest in the cross-Channel market.

Conclusion

Virgin Trains has taken a significant step toward challenging Eurostar by securing train and funding, potentially initiating competition on cross-Channel routes, subject to regulatory and operational approvals.

Company Summary

Virgin Trains: The company has plans to launch cross-Channel services from London to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam starting in 2030. The company has requested the ability to run services on HS1, the high-speed line that runs from London’s St Pancras International and through the Channel tunnel. Led by Phil Whittingham, former boss of Virgin Trains UK, the company’s plans require an estimated GBP 700 million in capital, with Virgin taking a 50% stake alongside institutional investors.

Alstom: Alstom has secured an exclusive agreement with Virgin Trains to provide 12 new Avelia Stream high-speed trains for cross-Channel services.

Eurostar: The company has enjoyed a monopoly on Channel Tunnel passenger services since 1994 and, following its 2023 merger with Thalys, is targeting 50 new trains and doubled passenger capacity by 2030.

Trenitalia: Trenitalia has expressed interest in the cross-Channel market.

Evolyn: Evolyn has expressed interest in the cross-Channel market.

Gemini: Gemini has expressed interest in the cross-Channel market.

Thalys: Thalys merged with Eurostar in 2023.

Technology

Avelia Stream: The model features tilting technology, flexible boarding, and strong performance in winter conditions, making it well-suited for cross-border operations. Each train can carry a mix of passenger configurations and is designed for improved energy efficiency.

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