The switchover marks a key milestone in the electrification and upgrading of services along the Algarve corridor. From that date, diesel railcars of the 0450 series will be progressively replaced by 2240-series EMUs operating between Lagos and Vila Real de Santo António.
The electrification scheme represents an investment of €25.4m, with 85% co-financed by EU COMPETE 2020 funds. The programme has been delivered in two sections: Faro–Vila Real de Santo António (completed in 2023) and Tunes–Lagos (45 km, executed by COMSA Corporación). The first electric train reached Vila Real de Santo António on 24 June 2025, after which dynamic and systems testing has been undertaken.
The transition is expected to deliver improved energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact and enhanced passenger comfort. The refurbished 2240 units, modernised between 2003 and 2005 and already proven on other routes, offer superior acceleration, greater operational reliability and lower noise levels.
Full electrification will enable a journey time reduction of up to 25 minutes between Lagos and Vila Real de Santo António, while allowing through running onto the national north–south corridor without changing trains. Final testing phases commenced on 27 January 2026 on the Tunes–Lagos section.