Historic Double-Decker Order
Eurostar has placed a €2 billion (£1.74 billion) order for its first-ever double-decker high-speed trains, according to reports confirmed Wednesday. The company has ordered 30 “Celestia” trains with an option for 20 additional units, marking what analysts suggest is the largest fleet modernization in the company’s history.
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Unprecedented Capacity Increase
Each 200-meter long double-decker train would provide approximately 540 seats when operated individually, sources indicate. When two trains are coupled together to form a 400-meter service as currently practiced, the combined capacity would reach about 1,080 seats. The report states this new fleet, which will partially replace older trains, will lead to a 30% increase in trains servicing London routes.
Breaking New Ground in UK Rail
These Celestia trains would become the first double-decker high-speed trains ever to operate through the Channel Tunnel, according to industry reports. Historical records show the only other double-decker to appear on Britain’s railways was an experimental model introduced in 1949, making this new order particularly significant for UK rail infrastructure.
Executive Vision for Growth
Eurostar Chief Executive Gwendoline Cazenave expressed particular pride in “bringing double-decker trains to the UK for the very first time,” adding that they would deliver “exceptional comfort” to passengers. The company reportedly aims to grow its annual passenger numbers from 19.5 million to 30 million, with the new fleet playing a crucial role in this expansion strategy.
Expansion Amid Infrastructure Questions
The massive train order follows Eurostar’s June announcement of an expansion plan that includes new routes from London to Geneva and Frankfurt. However, sources indicate questions remain about whether existing facilities have sufficient space to accommodate both Eurostar’s new double-decker trains and potential rival operators., according to technological advances
Strategic Implications
Industry analysts suggest this investment represents Eurostar’s commitment to dominating cross-Channel rail travel while preparing for increased competition. The double-decker trains reportedly will allow the company to move more passengers through existing tunnel slots while improving the passenger experience through enhanced comfort features.
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References & Further Reading
This article draws from multiple authoritative sources. For more information, please consult:
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/videos/c9wlw7nn8epo
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cded0zypxl7o#comments
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eurostar
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double-decker_bus
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euro
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Channel_Tunnel
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-speed_rail
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