France Leads the Way in High-Speed Rail Innovation with Multi-Billion Euro Avelia Horizon Train Purchase Set to Revolutionize European Travel

Published on December 1, 2025

France is making a bold move to revolutionize European travel by securing a groundbreaking order for Avelia Horizon high-speed trains, signaling a major leap forward in rail innovation. With a focus on boosting sustainability and connectivity, this multi-billion-euro investment is set to transform Europe’s rail network by introducing cutting-edge, energy-efficient double-deck trains capable of reaching speeds up to 320 km/h. The new fleet will enhance travel times, increase passenger capacity, and provide seamless international connections, all while reducing energy consumption by 20% compared to previous models. This strategic decision positions France as a leader in the push for greener, faster, and more interconnected travel across the continent.

SNCF Voyageurs, the French national railway company, has confirmed an additional order for 30 next-generation Avelia Horizon very high-speed trains, valued at approximately 1.4 billion euros, with the potential for up to 20 more. The first of these trains are expected to be delivered in 2031, marking a significant expansion in Europe’s high-speed rail capabilities.

This latest order will include the four-voltage variant of the Avelia Horizon, which is specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of European rail networks. The trains will operate under the Eurostar brand, providing services across five countries: Germany, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and the UK. A key highlight of this new development is the introduction of a double-deck high-speed train on the international route between France and the UK, with services running through the Channel Tunnel to London’s St. Pancras International station. This will be a groundbreaking addition to the high-speed rail landscape in Europe, marking the first time a double-deck train has operated on this international route.

This new order represents the third tranche in a long-term agreement between SNCF Voyageurs and Alstom, the French multinational company specializing in rail transport. The current deal adds to the 115 Avelia Horizon trains already ordered under the framework agreement, which includes 100 trains for domestic services in France and 15 for European routes. The Avelia Horizon trains will provide both high-speed domestic and international connections, enhancing Europe’s cross-border travel options.

The Avelia Horizon trains are built for speed, efficiency, and capacity. With a maximum speed of 320 km/h, these trains are designed to significantly reduce travel times across European cities, offering passengers a smooth, fast, and comfortable journey. The Avelia Horizon features two compact power cars and nine articulated double-deck cars, enabling it to carry over 1,000 passengers at a time, a capacity that sets it apart from many other high-speed trains in operation today.

Sustainability is a core focus of the Avelia Horizon’s design. The new trains consume 20% less energy than their predecessors, thanks to their improved aerodynamic design and more efficient traction systems. These features contribute to reduced carbon emissions, aligning with Europe’s broader environmental goals and promoting sustainable transport solutions. The streamlined design not only boosts energy efficiency but also improves overall operational performance, enabling faster travel while reducing energy consumption.

To meet growing demand, Alstom has committed to investing €150 million in expanding its production capacity at several of its facilities in France. This move is in response to the increasing need for high-speed trains in Europe and the rising popularity of high-speed rail as a preferred mode of transport. With more than 1,000 Avelia trains already in service across 25 countries, Alstom has established itself as a leader in the global high-speed rail market, operating trains that cross 22 borders.

The Avelia family of trains is versatile, offering a range of models with speeds varying from 200 km/h to 350 km/h, and configurations that include single or double-deck options, as well as articulated or non-articulated designs. This wide array of configurations allows rail operators to tailor the trains to specific market needs, whether for high-capacity domestic routes or cross-border international services. The success of the Avelia platform has played a pivotal role in the global expansion of high-speed rail networks, and with SNCF Voyageurs’ new order, it is clear that the demand for cutting-edge rail transport will continue to grow.

In addition to the technological advancements, the Avelia Horizon trains are designed with passengers in mind, offering high levels of comfort. The spacious double-deck configuration allows for increased seating and onboard facilities, ensuring that long journeys are as pleasant as possible for travelers. The trains also feature modern amenities such as large windows for expansive views, onboard Wi-Fi, and other features that enhance the overall passenger experience.

With the Avelia Horizon set to revolutionize European high-speed rail, the partnership between SNCF Voyageurs and Alstom signals a major step forward for the rail industry. The ongoing development of high-speed rail infrastructure is part of a broader European effort to create a more integrated, sustainable, and efficient transport network. As rail networks continue to expand and evolve, the Avelia Horizon is poised to play a leading role in shaping the future of travel across Europe.

France is set to redefine European travel with a groundbreaking order of Avelia Horizon high-speed trains, promising faster, more sustainable, and interconnected rail networks. This multi-billion-euro investment will revolutionize travel by reducing energy consumption, increasing capacity, and enhancing international connectivity.

SNCF Voyageurs’ order for these next-generation trains is a key part of its commitment to enhancing the European rail network, improving sustainability, and meeting the rising demand for fast, efficient transportation. With their impressive capacity, speed, and energy efficiency, the Avelia Horizon trains will undoubtedly transform the way passengers travel across Europe, paving the way for a greener, more connected future.