Renfe is putting its plans to reach Paris from Spain on hold, after more than a decade preparing to take on SNCF on France’s most in-demand rail corridor.
As reported last night by elDiario.es and confirmed to Trenvista by Renfe, the Spanish operator has opted to terminate the Framework Agreement with SNCF Réseau, signed to secure capacity between Paris and Lyon.
The Class 106 homologation — root of the cancellation
The main reasons behind the decision are not the protectionist barriers so often criticised, even by France’s ART. Rather, Renfe’s delay in reaching Paris stems from the technical difficulties in obtaining approval for the Class 106 to run on French soil.
A few months ago, Trenvista was reported the existence of several incompatibilities between the train and the Paris–Sud-Est high-speed line (PSE). In addition, there is a possibility that complications have arisen in certifying the outdated TVM 300 signalling and safety system used on that route, currently being replaced by ERTMS Level 2. The migration is expected to be completed later this year.
Regarding the homologation process, Renfe stated that it is impossible “to establish a reliable timeframe for its completion.” The company has also decided to prioritise domestic operations. In fact, the Talgo-built units already delivered —originally intended for French services— are now being deployed on Avlo routes, with two seating classes and the café-bar out of service.
Renfe does not give up on France
Despite the setback, Renfe insists it is not withdrawing from the French market. It will continue running the International AVE Madrid–Marseille and Barcelona–Lyon services, which together have already carried 640,000 passengers since launching in 2023. The company plans to renew its bid to reach Paris “when technical and operational conditions allow.”
That may not happen until the delivery of the new high-speed units whose tender was approved last week and formalised today. These trains are expected to offer improved comfort standards, making them more competitive with SNCF and Trenitalia France’s services on the Paris–Lyon corridor.
Talgo Avril homologation continues in France
Rail analyst Jon Worth told Trenvista that the Class 106 unit assigned for certification by SNCF Réseau remains under test.
Although the reasons for continuing are unclear, it may be part of Talgo’s effort to preserve its contract with the private operator LeTrain, which currently has no plans to use the PSE high-speed line. Moreover, Renfe could benefit from having a Class 106 train certified for international services, potentially replacing the ageing Class 100 fleet.