FS Italiane Group has announced plans to launch a new high-speed rail service connecting Paris and London by 2029. This announcement underpins the Group's broader objectives outlined in the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, emphasising the expansion of high-speed connections across Europe.
The Group has committed a significant investment of 1 billion Euros in support of its goal of building a more integrated, competitive, and sustainable European rail network. A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with Spanish mobility company Evolyn to support this ambitious initiative.
The new service will use Frecciarossa, Made In Italy-inspired trainsets, offering energy efficiency, comfort and service quality. FS Group aims to enhance rail competitiveness on the Paris-London route, providing an alternative to air travel while contributing to a more environmentally friendly, customer-centric mobility sector.
The project has gained momentum following confirmation from the UK Office of Rail and Road for access to the Temple Mills maintenance depot, a key requirement for operating through the Eurotunnel.
FS Italiane Group has been operating in France since 2021 and has a strong presence in the UK through c2c and Avanti West Coast, serving over three million passengers and strengthening its foundation for this new international service. With permits already in place in France and ongoing work with key stakeholders to meet regulatory requirements, the Group is also planning for additional capacity at London St. Pancras station and exploring funding options to support the project.
Commenting on the news, Stefano Antonio Donnarumma, FS Group Chief Executive Officer and General Manager said
"This investment is a decisive step forward in FS Group's vision of building a more integrated, competitive and sustainable European rail network…..”,
“…..in line with the objectives of the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, which places an increasing focus on passenger transport abroad to accelerate FS Group's international development".
“High-speed rail networks are the backbone of efficient and environmentally friendly mobility, and by expanding our presence on key corridors, we are not just investing in infrastructure and innovation, but also in the future of European transport. More competition will help to create a more efficient and customer-oriented industry, offering a real alternative to air travel".
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