Virgin Trains, a railway operating company in the UK, has closed an exclusive deal with French train manufacturer Alstom for 12 Avelia Stream high-speed trains. These trains will be used for a new cross-Channel service that Virgin plans to launch in 2030, aiming for direct competition with Eurostar.
The Avelia Stream trains, capable of speeds between 200 and 297 km/h, feature flexible boarding heights, winter weather protection, and active tilting technology for reduced travel times. “With over 2,900 high-speed trains delivered globally and proven reliability in Channel Tunnel operations, Alstom is proud to support Virgin’s ambitious plans,” said an Alstom spokesperson.
Virgin has submitted a request to the UK’s Office of Rail and Road (ORR), seeking permission to operate train services on HS1, which connects London’s St. Pancras International station with the Channel Tunnel, linking the UK with France. According to the submission, Virgin secured an agreement with Alstom for 12 Avelia Stream. This model is the latest version of the Pendolino tilting trains that Virgin used on the UK’s West Coast Main Line 20 years ago.
Virgin reported that they are the only applicant that has secured both trains and funding. The project requires an estimated £700 million (€820 million) in funding. The capital will consist of a 50% stake from Virgin, with the remaining 50% split between two unnamed institutional investors. Virgin forecasts two separate companies: one for operations and one for stock asset management.
“For too long, passengers have had no choice and even less joy. We’re not here to copy. We’re here to raise standards, spark innovation and give people a better way to travel,” stated Sir Richard Branson, Virgin’s founder. Moreover, in the submission, he wrote that Virgin “has successfully challenged incumbents in air, cruise and, of course, rail, we’re ready to do it again.”
If the project is approved, Virgin would be able to challenge Eurostar, which currently operates a high-speed network, connecting the UK with France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland. Virgin’s proposal includes new services from London St. Pancras to Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam. The company also has long-term goals to expand its operations deeper into France, Germany, and Switzerland.
Moreover, the new venture will be headed by Phil Whittingham, the former CEO of Virgin Trains UK. Virgin’s recent submission to the Office of Rail and Road demonstrates that Virgin is confident, committed, and capable of delivering for consumers on the cross-Channel route. We look forward to the ORR decision in October,” said a Virgin spokesperson
