Eurostar, a Channel Tunnel high-speed train company, launched a new 200 mph cutting-edge train on Thursday in London. Crafted by German firm Siemens, the e320 train will go into service by the end of 2015 and will be capable of carrying up to 900 passengers—a 20 percent increase compared with the company’s existing rolling stock.
In a massive £550 million deal, Eurostar originally ordered 10 of the e320s, which are called that as they can travel at 320kph (200mph). However, at the presentation event at St Pancras railway station the company revealed it was ordering an additional seven new trains.
The debut comes on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Eurostar services, which launched in November 1994.
Described as being “inter-operable”, the new trains can stretch through varied European signaling systems, allowing the opportunity for a complete selection of new direct services between the UK and other European city center destinations.
“Having had 10 consecutive years of growth, we are seeing a record demand for our services and the addition of new trains to our fleet will be key to our growth ambitions,” said Nicolas Petrovic, Eurostar chief executive.
May 2015 will see the start of a new year-round direct Eurostar service to Provence, stopping at Lyon, Avignon and Marseille, followed at the end of 2016 by the launch of a direct route to Amsterdam with stops in Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport along the way.
Seven months from November – May 2015 – will see the beginning of the new yearly direct Eurostar train with service to Provence, stopping at Lyon, Avignon, and Marseille. The end of 2016 will welcome the launch of a direct route to Amsterdam with stops in Antwerp, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport along the way.
The external livery and interiors of the new train have been created by Italian design house Pininfarina, and will be equipped with free Wi-Fi throughout. In addition, passengers will enjoy more space per seat, as well as a USB socket.
“With just one year to go until our new e320 train comes into service, our passengers will soon see a complete transformation of our service,” Petrovic said. “The combination of bold design, chic interiors and wifi connectivity will raise the bar, providing an unprecedented level of style and comfort for our customers.”
