Eurostar has announced a landmark €2 billion investment in up to 50 new double-decker trains, with commercial services scheduled to start in May 2031.
It has confirmed an order for 30 of the all-electric trains, with an option for a further 20, marking a significant step in its goal to reach 30 million annual passengers.
Built by Alstom Group, the 200-metre trains will be interoperable across all five countries served by the rail operator today, plus new destinations of Geneva and Frankfurt.
Named Eurostar Celestia, will be a bespoke design created from Alstom’s Avelia Horizon platform.
The design process includes input from passenger and accessibility groups, as well as 100 Eurostar team members.
Seat capacity will increase by 20% on each new train, subject to final design specifications.
It is expected that each 200-metre set will have around 540 seats.
The first trains are due to join the fleet in January 2031, with commercial services starting in May.
Six new trains will be operational at that time, alongside Eurostar’s current fleet of 17 e320s, bringing the total fleet to 67 trains – a 30% uplift overall versus today.
Gwendoline Cazenave, CEO, Eurostar said: “Placing this milestone order marks the concrete realisation of Eurostar’s ambitious growth strategy – to reach 30 million passengers by investing in a brand-new fleet. We’re particularly proud to bring double-decker trains to the UK for the very first time.
“Customers can expect a very special new train with Eurostar Celestia, which will offer exceptional comfort, a unique Eurostar experience and new surprises to be revealed. This is a golden age for international sustainable travel – and Eurostar is leading the race.”
The trains will bring 20%-50% energy savings compared to the current fleet and are designed to withstand climate change impacts.
