Le Train, a private operator aiming to compete with SNCF in high-speed services, has reaffirmed its intention to deploy Talgo Avril trainsets despite uncertainty following Renfe’s decision not to operate them in France.
The company reports that more than 70% of the homologation test programme had been completed by the end of March, with certification activities continuing on schedule.
According to CEO Alain Getraud, testing has taken place across several axes of the French network, including LGV Est, the Rhine–Rhône corridor and the south-east. Ongoing work is being carried out in coordination with Talgo, Renfe and stakeholders such as SNCF Réseau and Eurailtest.
The project will use a fleet of ten Avril units tailored to the French market, under a contract valued at around €350m.
Le Train emphasises that these trainsets will incorporate enhancements derived from the first 18 months of commercial operation in Spain, including improvements in reliability, maintenance regimes and energy efficiency. The upgraded specification is also expected to address any technical incompatibilities identified during testing in France. Interior layout and seating configuration remain undisclosed.
Despite the withdrawal of the sole test unit following Renfe’s decision, the operator maintains that steady progress is bringing the commercial launch closer. Entry into service has been deferred to 2030 from the originally planned 2026, while the company continues to develop its competitive strategy against SNCF across multiple corridors.