PARIS, Oct. 23, 2025 — In a landmark move for European transportation, Eurostar has announced a €2 billion investment in up to 50 new double-decker electric trains, supported by the French government and manufactured by Alstom. The fleet, named Eurostar Celestia, will be the first of its kind to operate through the Channel Tunnel, significantly expanding passenger capacity and reshaping the future of high-speed rail across the continent.
Strategic Expansion and Market Impact
The new fleet is designed to increase Eurostar’s annual passenger capacity to 30 million by the early 2030s, a 50% rise from current levels. Each train will accommodate 540 passengers, compared to 389 on existing models, representing a 40% boost in seating.
The first six trains are expected to enter commercial service by May 2031, with deliveries beginning in January 2031. The order includes 30 confirmed units and options for 20 more, under a framework agreement between SNCF Voyageurs (Eurostar’s majority shareholder) and Alstom.
Responding to Rising Competition
Eurostar’s investment comes amid growing interest from rival operators such as Trenitalia (Italy), Virgin Group (UK), Evolyn (Spain), and Heuro (Netherlands), all eyeing open-access routes through the Channel Tunnel. The new fleet aims to reinforce Eurostar’s market leadership and offer a more competitive, sustainable alternative to short-haul flights.
Eurostar CEO Gwendoline Cazenave described the order as a “milestone” in the company’s growth strategy, stating:
“We’re proud to bring double-decker trains to the UK for the very first time, enhancing connectivity and efficiency across Europe.”
Sustainability and Innovation
Built on Alstom’s Avelia Horizon platform, the Celestia trains will be interoperable across five countries—France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK—with future expansion to Geneva and Frankfurt. The fleet will operate on renewable energy, aligning with EU climate goals and reducing the carbon footprint of cross-border travel.
The investment also reflects France’s broader commitment to rail modernization, green mobility, and infrastructure innovation, positioning the country as a leader in next-generation transport.
Summary: France is leading a €2 billion investment in Eurostar’s new double-decker train fleet, set to enter service in 2031. The initiative will expand capacity, enhance sustainability, and reinforce Eurostar’s position amid rising competition in European high-speed rail.
Double Decker Train Picture By David Gubler Bahnbilder
Sources: Eurostar, Alstom, RTÉ, RFI, Business Travel News Europe, The Brussels Times Legit | MSN Daily Times(PK) | MSN Yahoo News UK RTÉ RFI The Brussels Times businesstravelnewseurope.com railtech.com.
